Floating Free of Time

 "Legends say that Hummingbirds float free of time, carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. The Hummingbirds delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning, and that laughter is life's sweetest creation." ~ Unknown

A few Hummingbird facts:
  • They are native to the Americas and are among the smallest birds measuring 7.5-13 cm in length.
  • Their name comes from the fact that they flap their wings so fast (about 80 times per second).
  • They can fly right, left, up, down, backwards and even upside down. They can hover by flapping their wings in a figure-8 pattern, and fly at speeds up to 49 mph.
  • They live for 3 to 5 years.
  • Their bright radiant color comes from iridescent coloring like on a soap bubble or prism and are used to attract mates.
  • Out of the more than 300 species, 12 of them summer in North America and winter in tropical areas.
  • Hummingbirds migrate individually and only during the day. Their migration can span hundreds or thousands of miles.
I miss my Hummingbirds during the dark, cold days of winter. Each spring I wait impatiently with great anticipation for their return. Then, just like magic, they appear when Mother's Day comes around. I ensure their feeder is filled with sweet nectar when they once gain grace our backyard. Providing what they love will keep them close where we can enjoy their show.

So peaceful and fascinating to watch as they hover at the feeder and fill their bellies with nectar. At times they will rush in, get their fill and quickly dart away. Other times, another Hummingbird will approach to quench their thirst and a battle/dance will take place as they try to chase one another away. An onlooker might think the whole event was carefully choreographed for their viewing.

Peaceful and quiet or frenzied and amusing; no matter what show plays out before us, they are beautiful, graceful, and sweet. Watching will bring a smile to our face or full laughter; either one will warm our soul. We must take in every moment; on Labor Day's arrival they once again begin their migration to warmer climates. Sometimes I wish I could join them and float free of time.

They are here for far too short a time, but the memories from summer will stay with me through the fall and winter months, until it's time for them to return and perform for us once again.


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