Cardinals, both male and female, continue to be seen at the feeder. These sightings never fail to thrill me and brighten my mood. Is it the bright color or simply the infrequency of such experiences? Maybe I should wear red. Or maintain a list of unusual activities to do on an unpredictable basis. Would that perk up my spirits or only the spirits of those around me?

Yesterday, the nuthatches, chick-a-dees, bluejays, and red squirrel were joined at the feeder by a male cardinal--the first that I have seen this winter. Maybe the grosbeaks will also return this year. There is also evidence of a rabbit in the yard, but it seems to be completely nocturnal.