Saturday, June 6, 2009

Clearing

Sunny Afternoon. Oil on stretched canvas, 12x12

I came home yesterday and found my husband standing in the driveway, holding a black snake that was at least 6 feet long.

The snake was dead. So was the mother bluebird who had been tending two eggs in our bluebird house along the back fence. Peter had seen the snake hanging out of the box, but had not seen it in time to save the mama bluebird.

I admit, I burst into tears at the news. The bluebirds have been a daily source of pleasure for months, and we have looked forward to seeing the baby bluebirds ever since we saw the parents nesting.

Yes, it is nature doing what nature does. But that doesn't mean I have to like it.

Today, Peter killed another black snake. This one was about 5 feet long. All I can say is that maybe our little wren couple will be able to hatch their eggs safely.




2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Gaads what a harsh reality even when we understand it's part of the natural world.
It's tough to witness and the urge to jump in and alter the outcome is very tempting.

The outcome of this painting however is quite wonderful.

MHFiler said...

Carrie, I'm so sorry. You can get lime at the home improv. store. It doesnt hurt the snakes but the snakes dont like it and they go away. You're paintings are beautiful!