I was on a conference call when I took this picture and was limited in my movements. I took the picture through the window and tried to get to the door, but it was gone before I even got it open a crack. I think it is a western northern flicker woodpecker, but am not 100% sure. It is the first time I recall one showing up in my backyard.
I am unsure why the ashtray was a landing-place. Maybe it looked a bit like a nest. Or, it had a bit of water to drink. It was not used, so it was used that day. It had been raining, so it might be a protected spot out of wet and wind. This is a reminder of the old house and its memories.
Today, a visitor calls–
Pausing,
Lighting down,
Escaping wind and wet.
Making right to home–
Glancing to and fro,
Window framing,
Keeping me at bay.
I move to greet–
Suddenly, slipping away
Leaving, quickly as arrived
Withou bidding adieu.
Teacher as Transformer 