Have you noticed them calling to you?

It is such an enriching time of the year. There’s new growth all around us. In the last week, plants are finding the courage to pop above ground. Soon the fields around us will be planted and we’ll be surrounded by growing greenness. The trees are absolutely bursting with new growth, and to go back to that initial question, have you noticed them calling to you? What are those referenced callers?

The flocks of songbirds that have returned to provide us with their melodious songs.

As I hike along various paths, I look for them in the budding trees when I hear a bird’s call. I’m not the most intellectually gifted person when it come to bird calls, but I’m trying to learn them. Who knows? Maybe I’ll be able to join them as they sing. However, it is tough to see those flying critters in the trees. It’s when they grace the sky with their flight that I can identify them.

A bird that everyone loves is the robin. We look for those red breasted birds every spring, and they don’t disappoint us. Their quick wing movements are easily recognizable; their flight glides are spectacular. Of course, their song is so pleasing.

Oh to go to another subject for a bit. Have you ever tasted Redbreast Irish Whiskey? This top tier Irish whiskey is smooth and filled with complex flavors with a hint of sherry at the finish. When I first tasted it, I was absolutely stunned by its flavors. It’s beautiful and sings such a nice melody to you.

Now, back to our bird friends! It’s so awesome to see the blackbirds, the yellow headed blackbirds along with the various redheaded woodpeckers and the little juncos, nuthatches and sparrows. Naturally, we are used to the very cool bald eagle around here, but they never cease to catch my attention. There are the doves, gulls, pigeons, and soon I hope, the incredible hummingbirds. And don’t forget that everyone of them is calling to you.

A while ago, an acquaintance of mine asked me if I had heard the calling of the crows. I never thought of them as calling to me, but now I notice every call and thank my friend for making me pay attention to their calling. Thanks, Evie!

Yes, all birds are a gift to us, but aren’t many old friends a gift to us, too? If there’s an old compadre you haven’t spoken to for awhile, call that person. It is the season for growth — green up that old relationship!

And also, since it’s a season for newness and growth, why not try a new wine? I suggest a bottle of Shannon Ridge High Elevation Zinfandel. Such a treat! It features the classic blackberry/plum flavors and the expected bit of spice. The finish is oaky soft. Give it a try as you sit outside listening to the musical calling of the birds.

May your life be filled with many types of positive calls.

As always, eat and drink in moderation, but laugh with reckless abandon!

Cheers!