I was up early today, thanks to Dallas. But I can't be mad because it is beautiful outside. Just within the fenced boundaries of our yard, I can hear a Robin calling out, a family of bickering squirrels in the oak tree, and scores of birds chattering and singing their morning songs. On top of the pine trees in the corner there are sparrows, a yellow finch, a handful of red birds that I haven't identified yet all trying to find a way to comfortably fit on the sprigs, and another unknown bird that came swooping from the tree and landed on the deck. He took one look at me before flitting away. Our backyard is truly a delightful menagerie.