At the end of June, we found this precious nest in a bush/shrub (not sure what its technical name is) right off our deck. It was in perfect view for us to watch the babies grow. NOw the funny thing is that daddy thought we were the intruders, so every morning we'd hear him trying to attach us through our deck door. It was incredible to watch the nest go from being empty to each stage of life. It was also very educational for me b/c I had no idea how quickly birds "grow up".
This was day one. Momma Cardinal had 5 eggs, but one day before they hatched we saw one on the ground. Not sure if Momma or Daddy threw it out or if something else tried to take it. If you can see below, three hatched and there was one lone egg left when we took pictures. They were kinda ugly with their transparent skin and gray fuzz. But, it was truly amazing to see this new life I'd never experienced before.
As you can see, on day 2 below, all four babies were now hatched and sleeping.
As the days progresssed, they became stronger and much more excited about the possibility of food! We probably weren't the best hosts b/c we'd come out with the camera freaking out Mom and Dad. Kenny would whistle, trying mimic the parents, and we'd get the following response:
Withing a matter of days, those babies started to outgrow their nest and it got more difficult to see their skin b/c of the feathers they were growing. And, overnight we seemed to have lost one of the four. We tried to see if it prematurely tried to fly, but couldn't find any evidence around the bush. One night, KP did kill a huge snake that was close to the deck, so we really aren't sure if mom and dad flew it off somewhere or if something else got it.
These were the little babes on July 2nd. Much more alert and growing!!!!
July 3rd, we came outside to find that only one little babester was left. I assume this was the one that took its time hatching, but who knows. :)
On July 4th, I came out to the deck to find the lone baby standing on the edge of the nest! I was so excited I ran inside to get the camera and tell KP to come out too, but in the matter of ONE MINUTE that I was running in and out, the babe had flown off. I was so disappointed I missed it!!!!
We did get some pictures of Mom and Dad. No matter what, they were always around watching over and doing what they could to protect their babies. I loved watching the birds do exactly what God created them to do. He perfectly designed their instincts to protect and be watchful of their young.
I don't know what it is about "new life" that makes us stand in awe of God. It doesn't seem to matter if its a nest of birds, a litter of puppies, or human life. To watch all the intricate details of birth and how moms and dads take care of their young is just breath-taking. It allows us to see miracles on a regular basis.
I know it just happened this way, but what better day for the last baby to fly away in freedom than on July 4th, Independance Day. I love the symbolism behind it. How precious and beautiful our freedom is! We take it for granted! Not only our freedom as citizens of the USA, but also as believers! The freedom that comes from know Jesus Christ as our savior is priceless! We take for granted every day the sacrifice He made for us. I'm so thankful for his grace and His love for us that He would die to free us from the bondage of sin! Praise the Lord we can have freedom through Him!!!
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