JUNIOR’S DEBUT
“That’s one dumb bird!” my wife declared.
“Yeah, he’s crazy,” I nodded.
“Maybe he thinks it’s daylight?” My wife began to play detective as we sat on the back patio in the dead of summer after the sun had called it “a day”. We watched the crazy hummingbird fly into the hot lights, rest briefly in the palm tree by the house before flying around like a crazy bird until the geckos began to converge on him.
I love hummingbirds, they’re my favorite bird, we’ve had a more than our fair share over the years and I always get a kick out of seeing how curious and playful they are. A few days later I ventured out onto the patio in the sweltering daylight to continue our detective work… two and two were beginning to add up.
I searched the opposite side of the patio and finally spotted it; the nest. He was a she and in her nest that isn’t much bigger than a ping pong ball were two tiny eggs. The crazy bird was a mother protecting her own the best she could. She risked her life to detract us from where her babies rested unhatched in the home she’d built.
We fought shy of the patio to give the wee mama bird privacy and rest for the next couple of weeks. I wasn’t so sure the mother bird was much of a home builder and doubted if her construction methods could stand up to the Arizona monsoons. I’ll admit I worried a bit about the mother’s eggs and double checked them the morning after a storm… As crazy as it may sound, I said a prayer for those pesky birds.
The mother bird’s tiny home faired better than some of the trees in the neighborhood and I was truly thankful to find it intact early the next morning, and said a silent prayer of thanks for the seemingly slightest hand of God. A week or so after that, our oldest daughter who left the six foot step ladder permanently on the patio for her “bird’s eye view” of the process, discovered they’d hatched when one of the them was on the ground under the nest, dead.
We kept a close eye on Junior out the door of our bedroom and watched mama bird force feed the fast growing guzzler from about three feet away. It wasn’t long and Junior’s head and beak were well above the rim of the nest that he was fast outgrowing. Junior was a portly little fella and I began to wonder if he’d be too heavy to fly.
I found out the next day that wasn’t the case… I texted Kenz, “He’s flown the coop… Junior’s debut occurred… bitter sweet you might say.” In the midst of real life and all the stress and struggle that accompanies it, we find small blessings and treasures in the humblest of origins and settings. We just have to stop and watch the gifts before they pass…
Like the portly-little-squatty-body hummingbird named “Junior” who was born in our backyard and flew by as if to say “Hi!” as I penned this post on the back patio… That’s enough to make your heart sing…
Caleb Suko
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 2:19 am
This reminds me a video my brother did a couple of years ago http://youtu.be/kni7DBBKRXw We watched these baby Robins hatch and then fly away. I think the whole family was there watching when they flew for the first time and left the nest, it was a great experience.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:03 am
Those are some to the best things in life, aren’t they? That film was amazing! Your brother’s got talent! These are the type of things I think God uses to remind us of priorities and how precious life is. Thanks, Caleb.
bill (cycleguy)
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 2:26 am
Totally amazing how God has given even the birds of the air the innate ability to build nests that last and to know how to take care of their offspring. What an amazing God we have! Thanks Floyd for the reminder.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:04 am
You’re welcome, Bill. It’s rare to slow down to see the miracle of God’s creation, but when I do, I get many blessings. Thank you, Bill.
Dan Erickson
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 6:10 am
Great post. Hummingbirds are fascinating little critters. That nest is so tiny, but withstood the storm. God id good. Annie and I were fortunate enough to have a goose nest and lay and hatch her eggs just by our back patio at an apartment we used to live at a few years back. Nature is a wonderful thing.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:06 am
Yeah, that’s the coolest things to share with the family. The picture was taken by our oldest who was stopping by the house to keep on the progress. I think she has pictures of most of the hummingbird nests that have come and gone over the years. Appreciating the creation of God is wonderful blessing all unto itself. Thanks, Dan. Annie will never forget that!
Mia
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 7:10 am
Dear Floyd
Our garden is filled with trees and we have a BIG bird family. We have swarms of finches breeding in a palm- and pine tree! Their chatter brings me so much joy! They start at about 17:00 in the mornings and go to bed at 19:00. But we also have a pair of Hadidas (if you don’t know what they look like or sound like, please google them) who breeds in the pine tree, year after year. I think they were created for the lazybones for they make a humongous noise. Once a chick fell out of the nest and I raised it for about a month. But it died and I was heartbroken. It’s name was Harry! But the time I was its mommy was a special blessing.
Blessings XX
Mia
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:12 am
The Hadidas almost sound like a rattlesnake! That would really give me the creeps! The reality of life is sobering, even if it is birds. We’ve had some hummingbirds die that fly into the big windows at full speed. They play and go so fast that when they hit what they can’t see it sometimes kills them. Sounds like a good analogy for a post… Thanks for sharing, Mia. You have me thinking!
Dave Arnold
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 8:22 am
Great thoughts Floyd! I couldn’t help but think how God created those hummingbirds: not only to protect and survive; but to thrive. It’s how we should live our lives.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:13 am
I’m with you, Dave. Those little creatures know it’s a dangerous world, but they live with the joy of the gifts they’ve been given. Good word, brother. Thanks!
David
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 1:18 pm
Great post, Floyd. I’ve been visiting your site regularly but time has become a bit scarce so I haven’t had the time to comment much lately any where around here in blog land. Especially because I tend to grand-stand a bit. I read my comments, then re-read, then edit, then re-read them again. Takes me way too long some days. Keep posting, I’ll keep reading, always enjoy it.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 5:58 pm
Thanks, David. I so look forward to your well thought out responses, they’re usually better than my posts! Let me know when you’re ready to get started, I’ll be whatever help I can, brother. I did a guest speaking engagement at a small writers group around here and the motto of my speaking was, “If the world needs anything, it is most definitely another Christian writer.” We’re waiting! Thanks, David.
tcavey
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 1:55 pm
It really is the small things.
(this story is probably going to make me sound stupid- oh well) Last night I thought I saw a humming bird in my back yard. As I approached I was surprised the bird didn’t fly away- I was getting so close!
Then I realized I wasn’t looking at a humming bird but at the largest moth I’ve ever seen (at least I think it was a moth).
It’s the small things 🙂
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 5:59 pm
It is the small things… Like that story! You make me laugh, TC. Bless you! It is most definitely the small things. Thanks, TC.
Betty Draper
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 10:50 am
TC, you made me laugh too…needed it. Been stuck all day in Dallas/Fort
Forth, flying standby trying to get to St. Louis…would love to see a little bird fly by,even a moth. By the way you are not stupid…it may have been a moth but you saw a hummingbird, takes creative vision to do that.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:17 pm
TC has a way of bringing out all kinds of different emotions! Flying standby… Oh man, I’m praying for you, sister.
Joanne Norton
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 4:14 pm
Yes, I am singing with you. I love to see birds succeed in these windy/airy situations. We’re in a crammed together neighborhood. BUT as I was reading this I laughed, b/c I saw a PILE of small birds flying past our house [my office window] and down to a number of bushes and trees just about 50 feet away. The contact with you at the same time created a chuckly event. [OH, and you mentioned geckos.. we LOVED them in Uganda, b/c they ate the mosquitoes, the roaches, the other bugs…and we trusted them. Our area wouldn’t work for them, I guess, but I sure miss them!]
Bless you, Brother. You made me grin, and that’s a good thing.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 6:03 pm
What a gift our Father provides to us… All we have to do is open our eyes and senses with the right perspective. Like yours, sister. Glad to be a part of that contagious smile! Thanks, Joanne.
Audra Krell
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 5:07 pm
I’ve never seen a hummingbird nest before! I’ve learned about God over the years, that He truly cares about every single detail of our lives. After all, he’s numbered the hairs on our head and knows each one intimately. So I loved that you prayed for that little house in the wind, it shows you are man who believes God.
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 6:05 pm
I do, Audra. The universe declares His majesty and it’s a gift to see, experience it, and ponder it. You’ve not seen a hummingbird’s nest? You’ve got to get out more! Thanks, Audra.
Hazel Moon
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 5:32 pm
This is such a great post. Human interest as many of us have watched a nest and the growing babies. Such a reminder that God cares for the birds and how much more will he take care of us. This is a post that should be on next Tuesdays “Tell me a Story.” I hope to see it there. 🙂
Floyd
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 6:06 pm
I couldn’t agree more, Hazel. Our Father provides for all things and His word of scripture will never fail. Thanks, and I hope to see this over at your site as well!
Rick Dawson
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 10:41 pm
Taxi drivers, birds…what don’t you notice in detail, Floyd? That’s what I’d like to know 😀
Are hummingbirds territorial?
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 2:59 pm
It’s hard to miss a hummingbird dive bombing you in the backyard! I’m no expert, but it seems like they are territorial. I watch them year round and never cease to get a kick out of the little rascals… Thanks, for noticing the details, Rick!
Voni
Wednesday, September 18, 2013 @ 11:20 pm
Had to laugh one year on vacation when my mom sat out on a porch in her bright red, flowered robe…surrounded by hummingbirds!
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 3:00 pm
Too funny! Bright red or yellow will make you a target for sure! Amazing something so tiny could be so brave! Thanks, Voni.
Doug Blair
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 12:02 am
Keep aware…keep aware Floyd of the buzz of His Creation that is all around you. And you fit into it all in ways not yet perceived..Doug
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 3:02 pm
I’ll be my wits about me and an eye out for my calling. Thanks, Doug.
Jason Stasyszen
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 9:36 am
Love this, Floyd. I have experienced this so many times. Those little things can mean so much to us and they should! It’s the wonder of His creation and we are a part of it all! I’ve said many prayers for “silly” things, but I don’t really think they’re silly. God is concerned and knows the whereabouts of the smallest of sparrows and even provides a nest for them. Incredible! He is a great, BIG God! Thanks Floyd.
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 3:10 pm
Amen, Jason. We are all part of it and I can only imagine that our Father smiles at his tiny creation and the joy they bring us. Thanks, Jason.
child of God
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 12:57 pm
I love watching God’s creation grow!!! We have a lot of humming birds here and during the summer I fill the feeder sometimes twice a day!! Those little fellows can eat a lot. On many occasions as I am bring the feeder filled with sugar water out to the feeding area, I will hear the buzz and feel the wind of a hummer as they fly by my ear. Aggressive!!
How wonderful little Junior came to say goodbye.
Blessings.
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 3:12 pm
They do eat, or drink, more than you’d think those little bodies could handle! I’ve been dive bombed by the little rascals so often I’m almost used to it by now… almost! I have my eye out for Junior, I suspect he isn’t far from home… Thanks!
Ngina Otiende
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 2:56 pm
This is so beautiful Floyd, I like how God grants us a “God-view” in life – seemingly small experiences but which carry such weight and depth to the keen heart. I have been thinking on and learning more on these “small things” and my big God behind it all, this whole week. Great post and had me thinking and smiling away this afternoon. thank you 🙂
Floyd
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 3:25 pm
It really is the small things in life that turn out to be the biggest and greatest treasures. We use our senses to seek more when all we need is right in front of us… Thanks, Ngina. I’m honored to help you smile, sister.
Barb Raveling
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 6:16 pm
This was so fun to read, Floyd. I love watching birds, and especially momma and baby birds. That’s so great that you got to have them right on your back porch. We have a cat who loves birds, so don’t get to see a lot of birds on our porch! There is an owl in the neighborhood. Often when we go for a walk in the evening along an irrigation ditch near our house, the owl is watching us from his perch less than 10 feet away from our path and just about at eye level with us. it’s pretty awesome.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:04 pm
Owls are so cool! They fly close up as well and really give me the creeps! God’s creatures are amazing… and He takes care of all of them. Pretty cool… Thanks, Barb.
saleslady371
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 9:06 pm
This post gives my heart wings. I love watching our hummingbirds right outside my kitchen window.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:04 pm
You and me both! They really do lift a spirit don’t they? I know that is by a Master design… Thanks, sister.
Dan Black
Thursday, September 19, 2013 @ 10:13 pm
What a beautiful picture of Gods workmanship. It’s truly amazing and overwhelming to think about how God created everything so uniquely. Great thoughts as always!
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:05 pm
Amen, Dan. Unique creations with the same heart; to care for our loved ones… No coincidence. Thanks, Dan.
Dan Black
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 9:00 pm
Glad to join the conversation:)
Floyd
Saturday, September 21, 2013 @ 7:13 am
Always glad you do, brother!
Jillie
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 5:58 am
Hummingbirds have got to be one of God’s greatest inventions. They’re so tiny, yet so strong…and industrious!!! Always make me feel a little lazy. I would love to put up a feeder outside my kitchen sink window, if it wasn’t for all the stupid cats in my neighbourhood! (I’m into dogs, can you tell?)
Your story reminds me of one very stormy, windy night here. I had to take my little Westie out into the backyard for “her business”. I could hardly open the door because of the wind and driving rain! There, in the corner of the roof over our back step, sat a tiny wren all huddled under the beams. She looked right at me as if to say, “You’re not going to kick me out, are you?” She looked so pathetic, until I remembered that God shelters his own, right down to the tiniest of creatures. “Look at the flowers of the field and the birds of the air. They don’t worry about tomorrow, for they know their Heavenly Father will provide for them.” Great story, Floyd! I enjoyed.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:08 pm
In most instances that bird would fly, but sometimes they know our hearts. Great story, Jillie. Our Father sees it all and provides for all. What a blessing just to ponder these things. Yeah, hummingbirds are the best! Thanks, Jillie!
Loren Pinilis
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 9:33 am
Hey, what a coincidence – I’m responding right now on my back deck!
It’s so funny when God gives us little moments like this to enjoy – and to give us fun stories to tell later.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:15 pm
It really is a gift, isn’t it? We’ve been so blessed and I think to see that in the smallest of things and be able to share the stories is a wonderful gift. Thanks, Loren. Enjoy!
Betty Draper
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 10:54 am
We have those fun to watch hummingbirds too in our postage stamp back yard. I was hoping for red birds but we are too far south in California. But the Finches are plentiful. Recently I bought some nesting birdhouse for them…hoping to show our grand children eggs leading to newly birth finches. Going to have to check and see if there is a certain season the mate because all the do now is eat, eat, eat. Alway good to be reminded of being watchful for the little things.
Thanks brother.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:19 pm
Watching simple things like birds being born and eventually grow up to fly is bonding time for a family. The most valued treasures we have can never be measured by a number. You’re going to have a ball with your grandkids, Betty! Thanks, sister.
Hutch
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 2:55 pm
Great story. I’d love to see how tiny a baby hummingbird is. My wife is meticulous about feeding her “hummers”. We love watching them play and protect their feeders. I am always amazed by how such a tiny creature can attract so much attention. Friends and family are often in our back yard and the hummingbirds are always the main attraction.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:21 pm
I know! It seems crazy, but they really are so enjoyable to watch! I imagine our Father watches with joy at the simple joy in our hearts of His creation. You’re not alone, brother! Thanks, Hutch.
Dolly@Soulstops
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 4:21 pm
Floyd,
Ah…love that you said a prayer for Junior and his mom…I love hummingbirds…thanks for paying attention and then sharing with us…big smile 🙂 Happy weekend to you and yours 🙂
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:23 pm
Wouldn’t it be great if we grasped, like the night of that storm, that all things are solely in the hands of our Father? I’m glad to share a smile, Dolly. A great weekend to you and your family too. Thanks.
Lincoln Parks
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:07 pm
This is a miracle of life to see that entire process happen right before your eyes. Its a lesson in life that although some may not be ready some leave. Some stay and get strong enough with the word to go out on their own. Its amazing to see how this process takes place. I would have prayed also for the little birds.
Floyd
Friday, September 20, 2013 @ 6:39 pm
I’m with you, Lincoln. There is so many parallels in this life. As hard and strong as we can be, there is a time to be gentle. We are warrior poets, brother. Thanks, Lincoln.
Pam
Saturday, September 21, 2013 @ 3:07 am
Thank you for sharing the flight of the hummingbird with us. I LOVE tales of God’s provision and the glimpse He gives us of His love for all His creatures. Glad I popped over to your blog!
Blessings!
Pam
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Floyd
Saturday, September 21, 2013 @ 7:14 am
The smallest of things, that we tend to take for granted that our Father gives us as gifts to enjoy and keep a proper perspective, are richest of blessings. Thanks for stopping in, Pam.
Rachael
Saturday, September 21, 2013 @ 9:44 pm
We had baby doves being raised on our back patio this summer. It was so fun to watch them grow and fly away. I think they come back and visit once in a while. Sweet story, Floyd!
Floyd
Sunday, September 22, 2013 @ 10:24 am
I’m sure they will drop in for a visit, Rachael. What a blessing to be able to see clearly some of the best gifts we get in this life from our Father. Thanks, Rachael.
Sylvia R
Tuesday, September 24, 2013 @ 11:59 am
I love this story, Floyd–and hummingbirds. We have feeders on our front porch and I love to watch their dramas and their different personalities as they zoom around, but I never got to see anything quite like this. When God shows his concern for the smallest of things in His answers to prayers, that always impresses me more than the things we’d call big.
Floyd
Tuesday, September 24, 2013 @ 3:56 pm
Well said, sister. We’ve had hummingbirds around for as long as I can remember, but never ones born so late in the season. The summer monsoons in Arizona can be downright dangerous. There were trees blocking roads from the storm the next day… but the little hummingbird nest with Junior resting in it was just fine. I actually think he started to like camera! We always get things so messed up in the flesh… It really is the simple things that bring the most joy and have the most value on this planet. Thanks, Sylvia.