This morning was my favorite kind of morning. I got up while it was still dark and sipped coffee in a Nutcracker Christmas mug while I read my Bible. (I loved Psalm 142:5 – “Then I pray to you, O LORD. I say, ‘You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life.'”) Then I bundled up and went outside to say good morning to the sun as it made its appearance and to greet the early birds, who may not have gotten the worm, but did get their pictures taken!
And look who showed up – his majesty himself – the Ruby Crowned Kinglet.
His bath was brief, but getting a picture of him outside the safety of his Camellia castle was a great way to start the day. He didn’t display his full crown, but at least he gave us a glimpse.
As I was doing my best to focus on the Kinglet, I saw a male Downy swoop down to the branch beside me. Another bird with a brilliant patch of red; thankfully, he doesn’t keep his hidden.
A male Bluebird was perched high in the treetops, basking in the morning light. I’m pretty sure he was watching me as I was watching him.
Eventually, he decided that the reward outweighed the risk and he flew in closer to grab a bite of breakfast.
A Yellow-rumped Warbler, another of our winter residents, also dropped by. This was the first time I have gotten a picture of one of these birds this season.
Ahhh…beholding such beauty is indeed a wonderful way to begin the day.
Backyard Bird Nerd 
Great shots Kathy! 🙂
Such a lovely way to start a day. I’m sure you had a song in your heart the rest of the day Kathy!
I did indeed. 🙂
Bath or no bath, they’re all beautiful!
There’s just something about getting out first thing in the morning.
Lovely indeed! 💖💕🌈
I have a bad case of Backyard Bird Envy right now, Kathy. 🙂
I would not be at all surprised if that Painted Bunting were to make a stopover in your backyard on his way back down south! I am sure word gets around that yours is “the place to be”. 🙂
I am fairly sure I will be known as the “crazy bird lady” soon…I planted more dead branches in my backyard yesterday to entice them to perch for pictures!
What a great idea!
How do you get those kinglets to show off their crowns. The ones here in MN are just downright shy about showing off.
Sue – you have to flirt with him if you want him to show his crown – bat you eyelashes and blow him kisses…let me know how it works for you. 😉
Love these shots!!! These bluebirds in particular are wonderful! I’m so glad you captured these! 😀