Affection

“If equal affection cannot be,
Let the more loving one be me.” 

― W.H. Auden***

I finally refilled the bird feeder. I have been under the weather and failed to notice it was empty. How long? I have no idea, but I do know the songbirds will appreciate the seeds as the arctic air settles in this weekend. I have a deep affection for birds and feel terribly neglectful.

In fact, I believe that a gift for the birds in your area might be in order for Valentine's Day this year. Molded birdseed might fit the bill and make a great gift for the human recipients of your affection as well. "Let love take flight!" I say.

Begin with a small cake mold no more than three inches in diameter. If the mold is too large, it gets too heavy and won't hold up well when hung. Dissolve two 1/4-ounce packets of unflavored gelatin in 3/4 cup boiling water. Add four cups of good quality birdseed (mixed with dried fruit, if you like), and stir until well coated. Press the seed tightly into the mold, inserting a drinking straw all the way through the birdseed one inch from the top. 

Place your mold with straw in the refrigerator overnight before gently releasing from the mold. Let the birdseed mold air dry for several hours before trimming the straw and inserting jute string through it for the hanger. You can decorate the birdseed mold with bells or buttons or greenery, for example, and gift wrap it for giving. Or, simply hang the birdseed mold outside and wait for customers to come and dine -- they will appreciate the feast!

Please note: You may add cayenne pepper or chili oil to the birdseed and gelatin mixture as a squirrel deterrent. However, be sure to take care to not irritate skin or eyes, if you do so. 

***For a real treat, hear Auden read "The More Loving One" here.