Hazily warm this serene afternoon. br No early leaf sways around windless tree, br But what do I see shyly zooming br Around bare branches - robin, eyeing me. br Lake is a mass of feathered white flock. br Schools of learner-birds, prior to mating time br Scrapping with fervour, noisily shocking br Behavioural display under a shining br Spring sun imposing it's urgent instinct br On males. The pale females look on and wait. br Then blackbird gives voice to his frequently br Forward intent. Lady blackbird takes note. br Chaffinch warily eyes crumbs, patiently br Held in my hand, then lands, and I explode br With excitement. Next instant the robin br Comes calling, and cheekily eats a load br Of dry biscuit I offer, amiably bobbing br His head toward mine. Paradise walks earn br Top marks in the real life for which I yearn.