What to do when it's raining in California?

The dreaded rains are upon us, although, so far, there is nothing wild happening out there. I am sure the rain is only adding to the depression felt by San Diegans today, after their beloved Chargers lost yesterday to the New York Jets.

The birds who frequent my sister's patio are not enjoying their soggy seed today. This was the scene last week:

Chris sprinkles the seed on the picnic table near the patio doors, so that she can take photos of her visitors.

We could never do that in Toronto -- we would be feeding all the neighbourhood raccoons and squirrels, and the birds would be out of luck!

There is an interesting phenomenon that takes place around here.

Early in the morning the birds are everywhere; on the picnic table, around the feeders, in the bird bath and even enjoying the waterfall. The air is full of their tweets and chatters....

...then, suddenly everything gets deathly quiet. The birds are gone, the air is still.

And if you are quick, you will see the reason why. A huge Coopers Hawk invades the garden - sits on top of the bird feeder, looking around as if to say, "This is MY territory now."

I have not been quick enough -- each time he has come, either my camera is nowhere to be found, or, if it is in front of me, the slightest movement to reach for it, sends the hawk away.

Yesterday, we just missed him again, but we heard the racket -- the swooshing of his massive wings and the pitiful cry of a little bird, as the hawk flew right under the patio roof after him.

I wonder if this little one was a near victim of Mr. Hawk?

He sure looks a little roughed up!

So what are we, the housebound during the rains, going to do?

Well, Chris is going to give me lessons in painting with water colours. Last night I sketched out two drawings, ready to apply the paint

Hope my sister is up for this. She's a great teacher -- not sure if I am going to be a good student!

You can go here, by the way, to see Chris's perspective of our time together