Thursday, April 29, 2010

Something Different

In a recent interview, I was asked about what I listen to while I am writing. Believe it or not, this was sort of a tough question to answer. As in most aspects of my writing life, I can be a bit flaky about what music I tune into while in creative mode. Yes, I said it—flaky. I cater to my moods. I might listen to music, but then again, maybe not. One thing is a constant, though: I love, love, love, to write with the windows open. Especially if there are birds chirping and carrying on outside. Okay, I don’t mean to sound like Snow White, but there is just something about the tweeting and twittering as well as other outdoor sounds that is somehow comforting, inspiring, and motivating. Kind of different, but still musical.

For better or for worse, this eccentricity has resulted in yours truly crowding the back porch of our house with bird feeders in a variety of shapes and sizes. Which has resulted in certain family members commenting rather frequently that my birdie welfare programs are getting a bit out of hand. Some folks seem to think that the bug population might exceed reasonable limits since no bird in his or her right mind would waste time on grubs given the banquet laid out on our porch. Apparently, I’m not taking these comments all that seriously, though, because I’ve just put out a new treat--something different. It’s easy and kind of fun to make. I’m talking about a birdseed wreath (pictured), people. If you enjoy the flutter of wings, the birdie spats, the tweets that come from nature (as compared to Twitter), why not give this wreath a try? Here’s how to make this unique birdfeeder:

In a large bowl, combine three, ¼ ounce envelopes of gelatin with 6 tablespoons of cold water. Let this mixture stand for 1 minute.

Add 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is completely dissolved.

Gradually add 6 cups of birdseed to the gelatin mixture, stirring to combine.

Spray the inside of a Bundt pan with nonstick cooking spray.

Pour the birdseed mixture into the pan, pressing the seed down firmly as you fill.

Place the pan in the refrigerator for several hours or until it is set.

Remove the wreath from the pan and tie several lengths of twine around it.

Now you are ready to suspend the wreath, perhaps from a tree branch.

Easy, right? If you try this, let me know how it works out. I could use the support around here. : )

Have fun!

4 comments:

  1. I love birds. As for there being more insects, I seriously doubt it as they eat them for the protein that that seeds don't provide. So I'd say, the more birds, the fewer insects.

    As for the seed wreathe....It won't melt in the heat?

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  2. Interesting, Bish! And in regard to melting in the heat--time will tell. The temps have not gone above 70 degrees yet. So far, so good though.

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  3. Hey Beautiful!!! and I do mean BEAUTIFUL!!! How awesome was it to see your glowing face on my blog?? Thanks so much for stopping by. I know how busy you are, but I was so honored Cynthia. Hope that all is well with you. My daughter Zoe loves bird and I have to try this project with her ASAP! I will let you know how it comes out. I send you great big hugs from Coy and Myself. I will be coming around again!
    Your friend,
    V

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  4. Vanessa!!!! Thank you, thank you for stopping by! So great to "see" you here! I'm so glad we can stay in touch via blogs. Meeting you and Coy, experiencing your amazing presentation still brings on a huge smile. And I can hardly wait for your next book to come out. It looks amazing.

    I'm glad I have a kindred spirit in Zoe. You'll have to let me know how the wreath works out for you. It's been pretty successful here, although I'm not sure all the birds are sure what to do with it. : )

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