Describe one simple thing you do that brings joy to your life.

JetPack Prompt -6/4/23

I suppose there exist animal rights activists who would call my joy in feeding whole peanuts to ground squirrels I affectionally call “Squiggys” on our condo lawn wrong. But the way I see it, these gentle creatures need all the help they can get competing for survival in a hostile natural world. So I seek to obtain their trust each morning as they scurry down tall trees to pluck a tasty peanut thrown nearby or to occasionally grab one from my hand. For I’ve seemed to “even up the score” for the “Squiggys” to fend off those dive bombing blue jays, aggressive ducks, reptilian beasts, and cats on the prowl also  lurking for a snack in these sultry summertime surroundings.

Of course I realize that there’s plenty of responsibility required on my part to keep my squirrel feeding under manageable control. But I relish the simple task of sweeping up the empty peanut shells and poop pellets to keep our common space areas and parking lots clean. Before we leave town on vacation, I enjoy as well reaching out in friendly conversation with neighbors who will provide trustworthy distribution and cleaning up of nuts during our absences.

But I confess that  the greatest joy in feeding “Squiggys” each morning takes place in watching their  tiny paws and teeth open each shell so skillfully. For as they slowly find their way successfully to each awaiting nut, I similarly anticipate making good use of any awaiting opportunities for myself each day. So take a look at one of these resourceful critters for yourself in this short video. Clink on the link or picture icon below.