Breakfast on the Deck

On a recent crisp, sunny October morning, I poured my cup of coffee and sat down at the kitchen table. Thinking about how we need to repaint the deck railings soon, I glanced out the patio door. There I saw Mr. or Mrs. (Pumpkin Eater) Squirrel (can't really tell with squirrels- no separate coloring like with birds) enjoying breakfast on the deck.

My guess is that it was Mrs. Squirrel --who, had been to the salon for a nice fur-fluffing (notice the beautiful fluffy tail) and then out shopping,..er- gathering supplies for her household. She just needed a little snack before she headed home. She was slipping in some "alone time" -- eating in peace and quiet before she went on home to the pine tree,where all the kids would want some of her doughnut -I mean- nut.

Yes, it was probably impulse eating, as usually happens when a busy mom is gathering groceries. She left the nest early, no time for breakfast, and as she was scurrying around, the sights and smells of all the food around her just took over. Never shop when you're hungry, they say.

I drank my coffee in silence--making no sudden moves that would disrupt this moment for her. Eat on my little friend... you have earned it.

I think about buying a pumpkin for the deck again this year- just a small one. Mr. Squirrel can perhaps design an apartment out of it, where you could have an occasional afternoon get-away while he and the kids nap in the tree. Or you, Mrs. Squirrel, could relax and catch an episode of "Rocky and Bullwinkle"- (remember Rocky the flying squirrel?:) Better yet- watch the Food Network where you could get recipes for 101 ways to use nuts. Could be a long winter... remember last year?...brrrr...

Getting up to pour myself another cup of coffee, I feel a little shiver... and think how thankful I am that it is still only October. Oh, and I need to go to the grocery store this afternoon... I think we're out of doughnuts milk.