Betty Rhodes

It just doesn’t get any better than this. I’ve just come in from spending the day getting some much needed work done in my garden. I’m pleasantly tired —actually, my back is “talking” to me as I overdid it a bit — but with all of life’s pleasures there’s always a little downside.

There’s just something so wonderful about being outside with the sun warming you, the birds singing, your hands in the warm soil.

I’m reminded of part of a prayer I remember reading some time ago by Sister Teresa Clair. “May you be content knowing you are a child of God. Let his presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love. It is there for each and every one of us.”

Maybe God loves to garden, too.

 I’m not an overly religious person, but who can argue that there must surely be a higher power that makes you aware of a lovely presence that warms your soul. Anyway, that’s what my mind, body and spirit is saying: being with nature, along with His presence, “settles into my bones” and I feel like dancing and singing. Wouldn’t it be wonderful to bottle this sunshine to uncork on those dark, wintry days ... I’m just sayin’.

So, that’s what being outdoors does for me and I strongly recommend it.

Plus, it’s vital to find some form of outdoor activity that combines social and physical elements. For instance, you know how great your body feels when you’re walking or working or any kind of physical exercise? It seems to thrive on activity, plus the benefits are numerous. It also gives us a positive attitude and sense of well-being. Add that to the joy of being with good friends and family and you’ve got the whole package.

So if gardening is not your thing, how about birding?

Being outdoors, walking, meeting nice people, seeing beautiful areas while enjoying identifying and learning about birds. Sounds like a winner to me.

There must be something to birding, as there are an estimated 48 million bird watchers in America. It’s the second fastest growing hobby in the country, after gardening, according to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Another interesting fact is which kinds of avian life most birders seem to enjoy watching: Waterfowl is number one on the hit parade, followed by birds of prey and songbirds.

Every Friday, Cheryl Harris, president of the Audubon Society, takes a group of experienced and inexperienced folks on a field trip to a destination in Napa County. A carpool departs around 8 a.m. (sometimes earlier) and concludes by noon.

A plant expert usually comes along to help identify unusual plants while Harris and others seek out bird life.

The carpool usually meets behind Sweeney’s Sports in the Riverpark Shopping Center on Imola Avenue in Napa.

The Audubon Society recently held a workshop on building bird boxes with residents of the Veterans Home of California at Yountville. The residents were pleased to help with the project and are looking forward to watching and learning about the birds in their new bird boxes on the home’s beautiful grounds.

Harris also mentioned a few of her favorite birding areas: Lake Hennessey, the Napa River Ecological Reserve and Huichica Creek.

Another one that will be fun for birding will be Oxbow Preserve, just under 13 acres with trails, due to open soon. 

Harris suggests that you call her at 224-6133 or e-mail her at cheryleharris@sbcglobal.net to check on upcoming times and meeting places.

Senior Corner appears every other Monday, alternating with Jim Ford’s Napa As It Was. Betty can be reached at bettyrrhodes@sbcglobal.net.