A Last Goodbye

I looked out our kitchen windows early yesterday morning expecting to see an empty branch in the Bay Magnolia tree where our faithful little hummingbird usually sits. I had mixed emotions, knowing I would miss the little fellow if he was gone, but it was 37 degrees outside, and I hoped he had begun his long journey south for the winter. But he was there ... huddled on his little branch ... his feathers all fluffed up to keep him warm. I stood and watched him for a few minutes, and even talked to him, telling him I was glad to see him, but it was time for him to go. He sat there for a long time, perched on his branch near the feeder, as if he came to say 'goodbye.' I looked for him all during the day, but never saw him again. I wish him Godspeed on his journey south, and hope he will find his way back to us next summer. I'll be waiting and watching for him ...