Tuesday, June 30, 2009

A New Resting Spot

The hummingbirds arrive every year around May 1. Sometimes a day or two early, or late, but they come every single year. Don and I have enjoyed their visits, from the viewpoint of our kitchen sink, for 13 years. When a big storm brought down a few limbs from a tree in the backyard, I asked that the one limb stayed. It looks funny, sticking out there all by itself, but we know it's real purpose. It's a resting spot for the little hummers, before they swoop to our feeder for a sip. That limb had to stay, in spite of its appearance, because everyone needs a resting spot.
When we found out the house was sold, I realized we'd be taking down the hummingbird feeder mid-season. The birds that had staked out our yard as a source of nectar would be wondering 'what on earth?!' I decided to leave one behind for the homeowners to set up and enjoy.

Everyone needs a resting spot in life, don't they? We're praying our home becomes one for this new family, a place to come inside from all the storms of life, and even a place to nestle in after a great day. We've received gifts from realtors who sold our house, or sold the house to us. I thought it would be nice to start a new tradition, leaving behind a house warming gift, from one family to the next.

10 comments:

Unknown said...

That is the sweetest house warming gift I have ever heard of ... especially since you already know for sure that it will get visitors. Great idea!!

pcb said...

What a sweet idea!

Just Terrific said...

How sweet is that? I think it was a gift for all of you. The new owners will get to enjoy the little "hummers", as you called them, and you will know that they (hummers) won't be disappointed or go hungry.

Gretchen said...

You are so thoughtful, my friend. I know you're going to miss the house and hold dear all your memories of it. What a lovely idea.

When we left our home of 23 years and headed to WA, our home's previous owners--empty nesters...she liked to quilt...he liked birds, I think--left us 2 books about exploring Seattle and WA. One was for kids, since they knew we'd be bringing a toddler and a preschooler. We felt loved, and that was especially sweet since we had (still don't) no family in the area.

Barbie @ Mamaology said...

When we moved into our new home 6 years ago the family that moved out left two teddies for our two girls (at the time) and a balloon. It made us feel so welcome....I'm sure your gift will do the same for this new family.

Anonymous said...

That was a very sweet idea!

Susanne said...

That is so sweet! I'm sure they will be so blessed by the ongoing gift of seeing those little hummers coming daily.

AnnG said...

What a great person you are to think of that wonderful new family -- taking over your house and yet you are leaving a part of who you are in it for them and the birds!

Linda said...

I think that is a wonderful idea Bev. I'm sure they will be blessed by your thoughtfulness - the new family and the hummingbirds!
And yes - we do all need a resting place. I love the verse in Ps. 91 that says we will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. A perfect place to rest.

Jen said...

I did this with our old home and left a sweet card with a cook book...something about a new home for someone...