January 1, 2012 – HAPPY NEW YEAR!  Old Man Winter has finally moved into the neighborhood.  Blizzard warnings abound and just as forecasted the wind is howling and the snow is flying!  It was 34 yesterday and nearly bare ground around the studio - but not anymore.  I'll be shoveling tomorrow and have to reacquaint myself with the snow blower.  The chickadees were feeding heavily today, sharing the new big feeder with a red squirrel.  There were a couple of birds feeding in the small berry tries along the driveway about two weeks ago.  I thought they were just a little large for the trees and was amazed the little branches would hold them.  Three were in one tree for awhile and bending, stretching and contorting in all directions while they fed on the berries.  It was quite a sight to watch!