Starting the day outside in May

I don't often sit outside first thing in the morning in May at my place. It's usually too chilly.

With the onset of winter, the sun's daily trajectory lowers and the trees around my property block the warmth and light. Sitting out on the deck first thing can be cold and drippy as condensation patters down from the Clearlite roofing.

But this morning, what a treat, sitting down out there with coffee, toast and a cushion, to enjoy the morning scene.  Little Boy cat was already settled in his chair,  watching a very large wood pigeon enjoy a drink from the bird bath, while a small mama blackbird gazed up at this very large and colourful visitor from the grass below,  no doubt wondering at the size of this guy (his weight tipped the birdbath bowl).

Out on the Gulf, not a ripple on the water, nor a breath of wind. No clouds, just a milky haze that seems to wisp and smudge around the top of Rangitoto Island. A couple of white sails as boats drift along and a paddle boarder down in the bay, coasting on a surface as smooth as bottle-blue green glass. 

The neighbourhood quiet apart from the chickens down the road, squawking and enjoying their breakfast. Smell of wet grass, and the dense, salty seaweedy depth of sea-scent.

Sound of sparrows chirping and the trees twitching as tiny green-tinted birds with little yellow eyes flit from branch to branch. 

Ah yes. a nice way to start the day and a treat to be outside without being chilled or dripped on. It's nice to take time to look up and look down.

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