So far this morning: Four deer were munching on the grass right outside the kitchen window, the wren has been singing and working diligently on the nest since at least 6 am, two robins were fighting, four cardinals – two male, two female – were in the big garden bed, Canada geese flew overhead, I saw (and heard) two mourning doves, and we had our first groundhog sighting.

I knew we had one living under the shed, as all the entrances and exits were free of leaves. He’d been doing some spring cleaning. Don’t know whether this is the same one that was living here last year or a new guy/girl, so we have no name yet. Last year’s was named Shifty, if you remember. We’ll watch and observe.

A little darker this morning as we’re going to have rain the rest of the day and tomorrow. It hasn’t started yet. He’s still nest-building – I just saw him through the den window.

The little tree next to the catalpa is in bud. I just noticed that this morning.

Better than any television show or movie, this is. My heart is full. I told Don that I realize that I was unconsciously ‘holding’ myself during the winter months and that I feel more open now. He said, sure, you were contracted and now you’re expansive. Exactly. No more unconscious contracting, now I’m consciously expanding. I love living here. It’s like we’re living on our own little nature preserve. The maples are starting to get small buds, as are the other trees. The last to leaf out will be the catalpa.

Grateful on this Sunday morning.

Stay safe.

Happy Sunday.