I think that the birdfeeder is going to be an ongoing source of interest and entertainment. It has a bit of a spiritual quality to it, as well. We fill the feeder, helping the wildlife who have had even more of their habitat destroyed in our local neighborhood, and in some small way we give back to the Big Mama.

And in honor of the bounty of harvest-time, we have spread seed in the garden, and the herb containers & even on the plants hanging from the rail. Last night, some industrious creature spilled the herb pots, and there is now seed all over the porch. The Sunchild wanted to sweep it up, but I suggested that we leave it, as it would likely afford us a better view of our visitors. He saw the chipmunk first, and we watched it stuff its mouth, amazed by the quantity that it could fit inside. He practiced his 'hunter's walk', and slowly moved as close to the window as he could. Later on, a Dark Eyed Junco came to visit, the first one I have seen this season. The sparrows come in droves, accompanied by the doves. The are so numerous, they flatten the damp grass, so it reflects the silver sky. We keep the Peterson's Guide on the side table so that we can reach for it in case of any new visitors.

We also finished Lord of the Rings today. I am glad that he has heard the story now, although I realize that it was in many senses, rather advanced for him. However, with a bit of help in remembering which character was which, he understood quite a lot of the story, and has picked up some wonderful vocabulary as well. I love it when he answers a question with 'yes, I think I shall."

We went for a bike ride today, in drizzly wet weather, with bags on the seats to keep our bottoms dry. He finally decided to spend some of his savings on a couple of new Rahi Tamers. Now he has the red one, the blue one, and the white one, and he has been creating dramatic scenerios all afternoon. Their small size makes them easier to postition. I believe we will be making some movies with these new characters very soon.