So, you’ve all heard of Pavlov’s dog, right? No? Well, read about it here. It’s all about conditioning. The more I observe nature, the more I become aware of the patterns within it.
This is our little buddy Zippy. I used to call him Chip, but hubby has dubbed him Zippy for the way he appears and disappears, Ninja style, all over the yard. He and his new little family live under our porch.
We first started noticing him during the Winter and were concerned during the continuing late freezes. But we made sure to leave treats on the porch to help with their survival.
As soon as Spring got over her bipolar attitude, they both began to reappear in the yard, and when seen we left more treats. It soon became evident the favorite was walnuts. Hubby loves to spoil his friends and family, so walnuts became the main event. They snubbed the peanuts, tolerated the pumpkin seeds and nibbled at almonds. Sooooooo….
We noticed something else. Zippy was showing a pattern. He would appear when we were in the kitchen by the back door and just sit on the edge of the step, kind of looking adorable. I might squeeze off a photo or two if I was lucky, but all too soon he scurried away. Hubby would then put out the golden walnuts. And we waited. No Zippy. But the minute our backs were turned, the nuts would disappear.
Now and then, however, he forgets himself and sits indulgently enjoying his treats, oblivious to the watchers behind the glass; and if I am stealthy enough I can get some really good photos. Of course, sometimes it is Chip that shows up. And lately we have seen the new little one zipping across the yard-just like its pop. I have begun calling it Nippy.
How do I know this is Pennington’s Chipmunk? Anytime they are hungry, the ritual begins. A trip to the edge of the porch, a disappearance. Who knows what goes on in the tiny minds of these critters? Are we the Walnut gods? Will they ever trust us enough to eat in our presence? Will a true friendship form? So far, I think they have us trained pretty well….Stay tuned for the adventures of Zip and Dale!
They really are too cute for their fur! 🙊💕
I love this sweetie too. Have a marvelous week everyone. I have had some rough days recently, but it’s hard to be out of sorts with so much beauty around me. 😊
Dreaming Reality 
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