Mama Cardinal

Mama Cardinal is a friend of mine. 

Well,

as much as Cardinals of any kind are friends of ours. 

She and her mate are regular visitors to my bird feeder, 

and bird bath.

I get to know them by observation.

I keep some of their favorite food around to keep them happy. 

Like I mentioned, we are friends.

I especially enjoy when they are all the way in the water, 

Flapping their wings,

enjoying a full bath.

They delight in the gifts they find here. 

They are ultimately gifts from our Creator, 

but I help=}.

Mama Cardinal is typically shyer than her Mister. 

His all over red, 

is designed for her protection.

She also spooks a bit more easily than he does.

So, 

it makes sense to have him protect her.

After all, 

she is Mama Cardinal.

She rules the roost.

And we want more baby Cardinals.

I was delighted to capture a thoughtful photo of her this morning.

They visit most mornings for breakfast, 

and evenings for supper.

A mid-day meal, 

when it is not too hot at the feeder, 

is also possible.

They come when I sit out in the mornings.

That is how I snapped this picture.

Even more than bathing,

I enjoy watching them feed each other.

Mama Cardinal, 

or Mister, 

will peel a sunflower seed, 

then the one feeds the kernel to the mate.

It looks like they are kissing when they exchange the seed.

I often watch them both from the window when the weather does not permit coming closer.

Their habits are not timed, 

but their routine has a cycle and a flow.

Did I mention, we are friends?

I provide them with food and water.

Her part of the friendship is allowing me to admire, 

and occasionally take a photograph.

Mama Cardinal, 

Thank you for coming to rest and refresh yourself.

You, 

in turn, 

bring refreshment to my, 

body, 

soul, 

and spirit.