Taking a break with a cup of coffee is a luxury for me in this busy world. But when I do, it is usually in front of the window overlooking my backyard where I can see the birds and squirrels feeding. Though so quiet as to go unnoticed, the scene can be a veritable whirlwind. And then, I realize that mine is not the only busy life.

Wow, birds are hyper! The mourning doves and sparrows forage for that leftover seed on the ground. The cardinals are picking out the fattest black oil sunflower seed. A titmouse and chickadee hurriedly take their turns at the feeder ports. The house finch is the glutton of the group, gorging on as much seed as possible. Squirrels scurry in to pick through the droppings under the feeder. The pace continues relentlessly until the feeder is emptied or nightfall arrives.

I have learned to offer different food for different birds. There are ground feeders that enjoy millet, and there are platform feeders, including jays, that seek peanuts and corn. An occasional mockingbird prefers fruit. To lure those exciting woodpeckers, suet cakes are perfect. What grand entertainment comes from watching them peck away at the fatty treats. I have even hung a turkey carcass in an old onion bag in a tree to invite the pompous crows to dine on leftovers.

In these quiet moments sipping coffee, I realize that my backyard has a continuous heartbeat - my hectic pace finds its match!