Living Here With The Birds And The Bees
Living Here With The Birds And The Bees
This body of work began quietly, during a period of deep depression. After several months, I made a wreath for my front door as a small gesture of care and re-entry into the world. It was constructed from faux eucalyptus wire, with a bee-themed bow and centerpiece—symbols chosen to carry Christian meaning without being overtly religious.
The wreath hung on my door, untouched, for nearly a year and a half.
Then one spring, birds decided to make it their home.
The phrase ”the birds and the bees” is a cultural cliché—often used to simplify or avoid the mystery of life’s beginnings. What unfolded here was anything but simplified. Life arrived without instruction, without my intention, and without regard for symbolism or design plans. In that sense, it became a quiet collaboration with the greatest artist of all.
I was especially surprised that the birds nested there at all. The wreath’s centerpiece was reflective, chosen specifically to deter any inhabitants. But the birds seemed undeterred—perhaps even drawn in. The bees stayed, and so did the birds.
They built a nest directly within the wreath, and I began documenting their presence daily in anticipation of the eggs hatching. What followed was both a blessing and a careful vigil. One egg fell from the nest, and I became acutely aware of how fragile the situation was—how important it was not to disturb the birds or frighten the parents, who were nesting just beyond my threshold. I was intentional in observing without interference, mindful of my responsibility to protect the nest and comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Despite the anxiety, it was a profound joy to witness life unfolding so close to home. To watch nature arrive, settle, and give birth into spring was uplifting and deeply moving—a reminder of continuity, care, and renewal. It was a season of learning how to live alongside creation rather than manage it.
Please enjoy these photographs and graphic illustrations, created in response to that season of quiet attention and unexpected grace.