Happy New Year 2026!

It's cold and bright here on Dec. 31st. This means that we have a lot of bird activity which includes our winter flock of Cedar Waxwings. They always enjoy the ligustrum berries.

We keep the Christmas decorations up as we ring in the New Year. I like to keep the festive spirit going through New Year's Day. January 2nd is my day to put the decorations away.

Our perfectly sized fresh tree

This year we added an artificial swag to the mantle. I have to admit I am enjoying the no maintenance aspect of this.

1/1/2026- Much better light in the house today. I have to show you the retro flying reindeer.

I like to think that it will be a good day when I see a bluebird. We had a family at the feeder this morning.

1/1/2026 The bird activity continues. Here's a brighter bluebird.

New Year's Day bluebird

Such a beautiful profile even with the shadow of the chain

A beautiful Cedar Waxwing resting in the weeping cherry tree. I love their gentle colors.

I was surprised to see this orange bird at the pond getting a drink of water. Our birdbath is frozen over at the moment.

Is it a Baltimore oriole? AI found visual matches that were very similar. Is this their color in winter?

Maybe, our mystery bird portends good surprises in 2026. I wish everyone a wonderful 2026!