Bird Watching...

We are excited that a pair of robins have taken up residence in one of our cedar trees in the backyard. Over the past few weeks we enjoyed watching them carry grass and twigs into the tree to create their cozy little nest. Lately they seem to be spending more time sitting on the nest, so we are hopeful that we will eventually have a whole little family of robins! The kids all seem to enjoy eating their breakfast more each morning, watching the birds duck in and out of the tree. It has become almost a game to see who will spot them first. When a pesky big black crow decides to hang out in the yard, we chase him away so as to not let him disturb our newest tenants. It has become a sort of science project really, bringing up lots of questions about birds and their nests, how the eggs can look different for each type of bird etc. Sarah even attempted to make her own little nest out of twigs and grass one afternoon. I had to chuckle when she came in the house to ask for some honey or syrup, as she thought that just might help it "stick together." I explained to her that we are not able to make a nest like a bird can. God created birds with certain instincts and abilities...sort of like spiders and webs. She seemed a bit disappointed at first, but it brought about some great discussion about God's creation and how wonderful and thought-out each little detail is! Next year as part of our homeschooling science curriculum I noticed that we do a unit study on various birds and plants in more detail so I am sure they will enjoy it immensely.