Sunday, May 15, 2011

A SECOND ATTEMPT...

It's so serendipitous... A little more than one year ago, I was working on the garden cottage just like I was yesterday, and something caught my eye near the door. Do you remember the story?

Well last time I only got a shot of the nest and the ill~fated egg that had fallen out. This time I got these beautiful pics of mama herself.



Go HERE if you'd like to revisit the first story or if you didn't catch the first attempt. I left the nest from last time in the sconce as an homage to the egg that didn't make it, and to my delight the mama re~used it. I think she reinforced it a bit and since it isn't perched precariously on a flower pot like it was before I think there's a stronger chance for her egg to stay safe.

I have to say I was really surprised that she stayed right on the nest even when I quietly went about my business right near her. I spoke softly to her and reassured her that I wouldn't hurt her and what a good mama she is. She really seems to trust me. I love that...

Keep your fingers crossed please.

29 comments:

  1. Oh my - this is so sweet. Love this. And what a great photo. She looks precious. Can't wait to follow along the progress.

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  2. What a wonderful close-up of her! We had a dove couple come and nest in the same spot every year for 3 years. I say "couple" but one year one of them was killed. Mom or dad, I don't know, but obviously who ever was left remarried. They nested under our patio porch, but this year after the babies flew, we started walling up the porch for me a craft room. We'll try to put something up for them close by so maybe if they come back next year they'll find the new spot suitable.

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  3. How sweet is this ~ I LOVE mourning doves. Their song just stills my heart. So lucky you are to have her ~ enjoy ;-)

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  4. How cool is that? I've looked all over to see if there are any nests in the garden. I watched a red bird starting a nest, but she didn't finish it. Guess she didn't like the camellia bush.

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  5. I just love this post! I am sending good thoughts your way that all goes well the 2nd time around:)

    xo,
    Abby

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  6. oh my I had to take a second look, it didn't look real.
    I totally thought this was a decor piece.
    AMAZING how beautiful she is.
    Amy

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  7. How sweet she is... and how wonderful you are for letting her keep her nest to raise her young. Doves are one of my favs. They have such a beautiful song too. I have lots of wren boxes that are used every year and it is such a treat to hear them sing in the morning and see them coming and going to feed their young.
    Keep us informed on her progress with the babies.

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  8. Oh I love this. I have barnswallows that come back every year!

    xoxo
    Karena
    Art by Karena

    Come and enter my New Giveaway from Serena & Lily

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  9. She's such a sweetheart and a really good mama! I'm a real bird lover and I'm so ready to see what's happening lately in the garden cottage! xoxo Debra

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  10. Beautiful photographs and truly touching...this calm mother trusting you while she sits so close on her nest. Another little miracle and gift. Enjoy! :)

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  11. I love these kinds of stories! What a wonderful treat! The photos are great! Anne

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  12. Shell,
    Even the wild birds can spot a true friend! Speaking of spots...did you order her to match?
    Debbie

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  13. Thank you for sharing such beauty.
    What a lovely home for a mother dove to nurture her young.
    ~Lynne
    [w/l]

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  14. Beautiful photograph of mama on her nest, and what a lovely story.

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  15. Shelly, I love Birds of all kinds, and this is such a wonderful post and a happy ending too! We have some Blue Birds nesting in one of our bushes, and they've been flying about when we pull up in the car. So much to learn from Birds too. Great job on the photos, tami

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  16. How wonderful to have nature at your door, the photos are wonderful and I think she'll be back time & time again!

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  17. Just PreCiOuS!*!*!
    Jeanine, ChiPPy!-SHaBBy!

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  18. She is beautiful! Looking forward to seeing more of Mama bird!

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  19. Oh so sweet! Last year I had a nest of barn swallows. Papa bird helped build, feed and take care of the babies. Both took turns protecting the eggs/baby birds.

    One thing I learned is if you leave the nest up, they will come back.

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  20. I look forward to a follow up on this....it's so amazing!

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  21. What sweet mama bird....fingers are crossed! Xoxoxo

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  22. What a sweet story this will be if things work out for this little mama. I'll keep my fingers crossed. She has good taste in nests and perches!

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  23. Seems that she is your special gift. Love that... ;)Blessings

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  24. Even the birdies are into re-use and recycle! Ha! Hope all is well with you and tell Mr. Sweet Pea hello!
    Pam

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  25. Hey Shell, don't you just love that she's back to reuse the nest. Too cute. Thanks too for praying for Cruz, so appreicated. Have a great week, T

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  26. What a truly heart warming story Shelley, very sweet. Lucky Dove, to have you for a kindred spirit, bringing hope...Swoon.

    Becky

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