“Susan, come quick!”
I run to the kitchen and look out the window where J. is pointing out to the backyard. Three bluebirds are flitting between bathing in the shallow puddled water on the pool cover, perching on the bare branches of the birches and peaches, and best of all, investigating the bluebird house to possibly consider moving in come spring. We’re both excited by the prospect, and mindful of our luck to spot them as they play for only a few minutes before they continue their migration. But one, a male in all his bluest brilliance, comes and sits on the bush just a few feet from the window. And then he’s off! Leaving me behind with hope and promise, and a smile upon my days-old grouchy face.
The Lost Children: A Charity Anthology