This morning as I gazed out my window with a scientific eye, I came up with a hypothesis: that it is mating season for those fat, dirt-colored birds that inhabit the neighborhood. It was the second amorous couple I’d seen in as many days. But now I think my assumption is wrong, because it seems late in the season for such activities. Perhaps it’s something they do when they’re just plain bored. Like humans in isolation. Nine months from now the maternity wards will be packed.
Elana told me about a cool online workshop I’ve been anticipating. The syllabus promised that we’d learn about avian language: how to understand the communication of common backyard songbirds. Instead, the presenter talked more about other things, like badgers, black mambas, Ecuador, his fluency in Spanish, and moms pushing strollers in the park.
We live in a dangerous world. During the day, I spend increasing amounts of time standing sentry at my back door, watching over my gradually blooming carnations, always on the lookout for hungry squirrels. When I’m not right there, I’m usually just a few feet away at my computer. Even when it’s cold I keep that door to the porch open, and whenever I hear the slightest noise out there, I leap from my chair with murderous intent and I storm outside, ready for battle. But so far, the sounds have turned out to be those of pecking crows or hammering neighbors. If the rodents do win against the carnations again this year, I will be sciuridicidal.
My friend Bari told me about Cocktails with a Curator, an online lecture series held on Fridays at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time. It’s put on by The Frick in New York, and each week explores a different painting in their collection. I gave it a try this afternoon and it was engaging. I learned all about this 1743 painting, A Lady on Her Day Bed, by François Bouchet.
Molly sent me another list of available dogs, and each one was promising. I actually filled out an application for one rescue organization, inquiring about one of these two pups.
Eleni liked Dusty much better. I wonder if the agency will get back to me. It would be a first.
Ta for now.
i like dusty more, too. just because he looks like arnold’s brother. how about fostering a dog for now instead of adopting? i know sammie’s friends here are looking. do you know about muttville in san francisco? they might need fosters.
you’re keeping busier than me. made masks and the woman left money that makes me very, very uncomfortable and got me down. i’m sure that was not her intention but that’s how i feel. besides masks ginna, i also made teeny weenies. you have to go to my fb page to see them. i ended up being a test crocheter for them. another job to put on my resume.
Im holding my breath for your successful carnation blooms.
I prefer Luke. except that he might remind you too much of Otis, which wouldn’t be fair to Luke. The other pup is cute, looks docile, and needs some TLC.
Marianna: I would definitely foster to adopt, but I think I’m done with fostering for the time being. Back in the day, when there was an animal rescue place two blocks away, I did that a lot and it was fun, and worthy too. I looked up Muttville and it looks good, but a drive to SF seems so onerous any more. LOVE your teeny weenie basket.
Small: As you know, I’m remaining vigilant.
“sciuridicidal” is an excellent word!
That sounds like a really cool lecture series! I’m glad you’re increasing your Culturedness Level, bit by bit. (And of course it’s already starting very high.)
Fingers crossed that this doggie agency does get back to you.