Female Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco
Last year on this date, I photographed this female Slate-colored Dark-eyed Junco in my friend Steve Creek’s garden from his deck on a chilly morning.
I was bundled up, so it probably felt less chilly than it actually was. This year, the forecast is very different. It is supposed to be in the mid 60s today. It is 59°F as I write this.
But wait, there is more. The Christmas Eve and Christmas Day forecasts here this year?
Highs will be close to 80°F. Winter will be summer.
The memories I’m writing about, though, have nothing to do with the wacky weather here. They are about my Mom and her love of juncos. Mom loved the “snow birds,” and every year we’d share when we saw our first of year juncos.
A few times, Mom would see her first of the season juncos in my garden in Virginia around Thanksgiving. We’d stand together on my screened porch and watch them eating at my seed feeders.
It hit me this morning that this this my third Christmas season without my Mom. I miss her so much.
Note to self: I need to take more junco photos this year.
Life can be bittersweet.
Mia
Click here to view more of my Dark-eyed Junco photos plus facts and information about this species.
I think I remember this marvelous shot from last year. Very cool. Thanks Mia.
Our winter Dark-eyed Juncos arrived here in Ontario about 2 weeks ago. Happy Holidays, and be glad your memories are bright.
Thank you for your reflections and the sweet Juncos.-Jeri
The bird is sooo cute! He’s like a fluffy ball with a head! 🥰🥰
It is a wonderful thing indeed to share your Mom’s love of Juncos for it honors her and your good memories.