Departing

When dewdrops fell lightly on grass blades, we saw them peering into the live oak. The mother admired it like it was her house, while the father stood on the fence above, disinterested. A few inquiring looks later, the pair left.

When the first yellow rose began to bloom, we saw the mother returning, picking up old reeds and grasses, hobbling away.

Now the showers left the couple hiding in their new home, sleeping peacefully in their cottage.

When the gray sages began to bloom, the mother was tucked away, while the father continued his search for food. A small pearl, the mother’s treasure, is left on their soft grass bed.

Soon, a small face peered out of the hole, seeing the great beyond for the first time.

Soon, the small face became a large face.

Soon, it took flight.

The old leafless trees, nests filled with loud melodies, now sit solemnly.