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The wait was not over. As we lifted the lid to the top of our propane tank, we encountered the little nest built there by a returning mother bird. Inside the nest were four, maybe five, tufts of feathered siblings resting snugly together. The mother bird was off fetching nourishment for her brood.
So we replaced the lid and vowed to check back soon. After all, we will need to have the tank refilled sooner than later to meet our household needs.
A week or two later, we checked again and yes, the nest was empty. However, we left the nest in place for a few more days only to come back to find two new eggs deposited in that safe haven. This is one industrious mother bird who has taken over the propane tank.
Once again we waited and let nature take its course. Our yard has become somewhat of a bird sanctuary. The breathtakingly beautiful Baltimore orioles are here in impressive numbers as they feed on the grape jelly we have provided for them in the special feeder.
Large, colorful woodpeckers are enjoying the suet and battling the blue jays for their meals. Cardinals and assorted smaller birds ground feed on the bits of suet and seeds the larger birds drop in flight.
As summer moves by quickly, we know our feathered friends will come and go with the seasons. It's the natural progression of life in nature. The nest will eventually be empty with a guarantee it will be back next spring.
Some humans appear to have a harder time with this course of life. Letting go of their offspring doesn't come easy for many while others are pushing them out the door.
Before we know it, kids will be heading back to school. Whether it's to the neighborhood grade school or a far-off college, the process is pretty much the same. Only some goodbyes last longer than others.
It's our duty as parents to let them go and let them go confidently. Hold back those tears when you drop your 18-year-old at his or her college dorm.
They know it can be hard for you but it may be just as challenging for them, as well. You might find that they can't wait to see your tail lights driving away so they can begin their exciting, new life without you standing over them. Let them.
Take a lesson from our feathered friends. The nest will always be there when they need it.
Heather Ziegler can be reached via email at hziegler@theintelligencer.net.