They had come again - the barn swallows. As I sat on our front porch, I viewed them with mixed emotions. My husband, Wayne, and I had been trying for several years to conceive a child, but it seemed not to be possible. So that sunny morning in late April I tried to push back my own disappointment and sadness while watching the barn swallows prepare for their new arrivals. Traditional southern touches add character to our simple country home.
White columns support the roof of a wraparound front porch.
With its rockers and swing, our porch is a favorite gathering spot. It is also where I often retreat for my quiet time. The two barn swallows must have felt comfortable on my porch as well because they chose to nest under the roof on one of the columns. I had no idea they would build in the midst of so much activity. Nevertheless, this was the third year they had chosen the same column.