COSMIC RELIEF
by Jnana Hodson
Sometime each winter, our Christmas gingerbread cookies move outdoors. Some, such as those that had been on the Christmas tree or hanging from indoor windows, are decorated with icing, while others, like these, remain unadorned.
Either way, the hearts, giant snowflakes, and stars make a striking appearance while suspended from stark branches.
But it doesn’t last long. If they’re lucky, the birds will beat the squirrels to these tasty treats. The squirrels, meanwhile, go through an annual ritual of trying to eat the cookies where they hang — a comic round as the sweets keep moving away from the marauders — before realizing it’s much simpler just to gnaw off the ribbons and then run off with the booty. Of course, the sight of a squirrel leaping from tree to tree while carrying a cookie a third of its size produces its own laughter, on our end.
An artful way of recycling–and a free show. What an excellent idea!
As great as this idea is, it’s the photo that sells it. Thanks for posting it! (The question is, will I remember this great idea 11 months from now?)
I think it actually began with stale bagels just slipped over the ends of winter branches. That was something that really had the squirrels going crazy.
That sounds like hours of hilarity (though not for the squirrels).
I think you should rename your blog “Jnana’s Wicked Cool Life.”
You’re forgetting it’s winter in New England … and just plain wicked cold!