For the past two springs, we have had barn swallows make a mud nest high above our front porch. At first it was fun to watch them. There are many that take part in building the nest. Then the birds take turns sitting on the eggs and before too long there are chirping noises and little heads sticking out of the nest. Finally, there are so many birds flying around that you can't tell which ones are the babies and then one day they don't return. The nest falls down eventually and we sweep it all away.
The main problem is that the nest is above the front door and the bird droppings pile up making it very gross for visitors. In the past I have tried hosing down the porch every day and strategically placing newspaper to catch the droppings and changing it every day. Well, it's like having a litter box by your front door.
This year we were determined to prevent them from building their nest. Twice a day we have power sprayed the bits of mud that have accumulated. (Did I mention that our porch is 20 feet high?) Zach climbed a very tall ladder and installed a fake owl at the top of the porch to scare the birds away. This strategy worked for about 2 days but then the birds deduced that the owl was no threat and they continued with their nest building while occasionally perching on the owl's head. After washing down their efforts for a few more days I noticed that they were not rebuilding it so I assumed that I had the better of them and was finally rid of the persistent little things. That was until... I noticed they had built a nest on top of the owl's head! Next year we are installing wire mesh closing off the upper porch. Anyone want to volunteer to climb the ladder? I don't have anyone here too excited about it.
Zach gleefully holding the Spirit Award which was the biggest trophy at the competition.
Hair - it's a drummer thing. I finally cornered Tyler and cut his hair just before going to a band party. There was crying and carrying on by the other drummers because Tyler's beautiful locks were short. I told him I didn't know that his hair was legendary. Not that it would have made any difference about getting it cut.
Their band won 1st place at one of their competitions as well as best music and spirit award. It was quite a big deal. Their show was great this year. It was a little sad at their last football game knowing that Zach is all done and Tyler will lose his tenor partner Parker when he graduates too.
Zach's saxophone buddies at a rainy competition. Holly is his best "buddy".
Tyler and Parker think headbands and hair (as long as their moms will let them wear it) complete the drummer look. Let me tell you these drums are heavy! I got to carry them at Parents Night. Tyler's been to the chiropractor to help his back recover, but don't even think about taking away his drums. He'll be doing it again next year!
