midwest neurotica

As you, fine reader, have already figured out, I was ecstatic that the Swiss Family Robins returned this year to my home. This whole cycle of life thing, combined with a feeling of tradition, really gave me a warm and fuzzy feeling deep down inside. It makes me feel connected to nature, not to mention very maternal.

Consequently, today was bittersweet. Just two days ago I discovered there were actually 4 babies in the nest. Yesterday was a big day for the family. With a lot of verbal encouragement from Mom and Dad, three of the babies left the nest. *sniffle sniffle* This little guy below was the littlest one of them all and needed some extra time to get going. He finally ventured out this morning and I was able to snap a pic before he flew off into the sunset.

Mom is patiently waiting with a wiggly worm to give her baby its last parental meal. The little guy was so nervous to leave his brick perch (and perhaps by my presence) that I saw him pee a bit too. Aww - how cute! Just minutes later, he was off and flying. *sniffle sniffle* They grow up so fast!

This whole scene reminds me of my own leaving the nest experience. I remember bawling at the McDonald’s on I-10, just outside of San Antonio. (I don’t think I wet my pants, but its possible.) My parents were driving me to college, chauffeuring their own littlest one off into the world. I was hardly hungry and just wanted more time to feel safe and taken care of. I was the girl who would never go to sleep-away camp, too afraid to be far from mom. Nine years later, I see Mom Robin offering strength and encouragement and know, that just like me, this little baby will be just fine.

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