….is what I have become. I have always been fascinated with birds but now that I have 64 of them, I would guess I am maniacal. They all do not have plans to stay long. Many of them will need to move on in a few short months. But it would be an honor if these birds I talk about today would grace us with their presence for a long long time.
Today, I would like to write about my budding relationship with the beloved Bluebird. Oh my goodness. I think the first time I really saw a for real bluebird was just this past year. Mr. Shady informed me last winter that we had about 6 pair out in the pasture that morning. I immediately made plans to put up a couple of houses for them. They will begin nesting as early as late February. 
The day after we hung one, a mommy and daddy moved in. What a wonder! I have become a stalker of this family. No kidding. So the journey began. (I might add that I have hung about 5 more but only this first one has been inhabited. So far.)
They have had two “batches” of babies, which is not unusual. Did I tell you I am an expert now? Not really. Pops bought me a Bluebird book and I find them most interesting not to mention beautiful. But they build a whole new nest for each family. If I do not remove the first nest, they will build a nest right on top of the old.
Enjoy the journey of this precious, precious family.
Mama sits on nest. She doesn’t spend all day there. She will come and go at her leisure.
After the babies are born she will come and go bringing food back for them.
Beautiful Mama
Mama and papa going out for an outing.
Papa protecting his domain from the Scarlet Tanager (bright red bird in upper left).
Baby taking a peek out in the real world. Eek.
It takes 12 -14 days for the lovelies to hatch and then they stay on the nest 19 days. I know from the babies actions today, with them peeking out of the hole, they are just about ready to take leave. I have SO enjoyed their visit and pray they stick around and tell all their friends about the open rooms at the inn.
Thank you for checking in and I would love to hear your experiences about birds in your backyard.
God bless,
Karen
The Shieling 