Boasting of Springtime

Each of us have something that we see as a harbinger of spring. Perhaps it is the sight of the Canada Geese flying northward, the appearance of Robins, or the Crocus that pops through the snow cover. For me that sign has always been the sound of the male Red-Winged Blackbird’s song.

His song isn’t particularly pretty; kind of raucous really. He throws his head forward, usually spreading his wings and tail feathers, and calls out (as best I can describe it), “conk-lah-ree!” with a definite exclamation trill at the end. Here is how it strikes me:

Brazen red-winged bird!

Head thrown forward he boasts

“Spring and I are here!”

When I first hear that call each spring it brings me joy. I like his boasting. He isn’t subtle, or particularly melodic; he tells it like it is and as he sees it. He is pleased with himself and wants me to know it. At least that is how it seems to me. He makes me smile.

So this blog is named for his boast. It isn’t apt to be subtle or melodic—but I will share honestly what I see and feel and hear—at least from my perspective. Perhaps this might interest you. I hope it sometimes makes you smile. But in the end I’m like the blackbird. I want to express my feelings and whether you like them or not I proclaim them and claim them as my own; no offense intended. Welcome.