Before The Snow Comes

 

Woke up yesterday to the crow caws. The three amigos (Sheryl, Russel and Counting) are usually quiet. They are the funeral directors of the neighborhood. They come around now and then for some water and say ‘Hello’ but are too big for the yard. They usually don’t fuss, unless it is Al (my old owl friend) has come back around. My usual feather alarm are the J’s who make a fuss if Mr. Hawk is around. I never did see them but whatever it was stopped shortly. Whoever it was left me some big feathers. Did you know you cannot buy eagle feathers? You can buy goose feathers, but only the native Americans can collect the nations bird feathers for their headdress.

Went outside to the studio. No plans to ride today, but need to feed the yard and enjoy the sunshine. My bike buddy was inside staying warm from the wind. He’s got his own entrance and is always welcomed. Then I noticed the yard was full of smoke. The breeze was blowing and I figured the neighbor was stoking up the fireplace, but the smoke kept coming. I walked outside and looked around to make sure it was coming from my house. I checked all the smokestacks and didn’t see any smoke? I think the neighbor was burning spy secrets again but it is very dry and don’t need a spark to lite the yard. It didn’t get any warmer, but the smoke stopped.

Today the governor is calling for a ‘commonwealth of emergency’ and schools are closing before the first flake. The sun is shining, so I made a slow ride to the Tummy Temple to get a few items and enjoy the panic.

Stopped to pet the girls behind me and find out the electric company is surveying the area to run underground wires.

The Tummy Temple parking lot was as full as I expected, but found my spot without too much delay. What was surprising was everyone seemed friendly. With all the carts full of snow preparation for staying inside and gorging, everyone was pleasant and patient and almost courteous. I found what I was looking for without too many detours and even the check-out was pleasant. I commented to the manager that they were busy and someone must have said the ‘S-word’. She smiled and agreed. I’m sure in her mind she was thinking ‘cha-ching’.

Took a little longer to get out of the parade of shoppers, but still no signs of fighting over empty spots or honking horns. Back on the road, the additional layer was keeping me warm and there was little traffic. It must all be back in the parking lot.

Now the plan is to sit back with a warm cup of coffee and watch the weather postings for a week. I may stir outside, but don’t need to test the icy streets. Still haven’t made my New Year’s dinner of ham steak, black eyed peas, okra and stewed tomatoes soaked up by Virginia cornbread. Got a lot of wire to run and cables to connect.

Wonder if they will pick up the trash and recycling tomorrow?