Even though, as soon as those lights stop blinking, we know that summer is upon us, it is still a shock to find wall-to-wall cars, bikes, skateboards and dogs on our once quiet streets.

Up and out very early with my bunny-hunting dog, it’s my favorite time of the day, especially when the birds begin their messaging. One lone peeper will try a tiny tune and then, in a nearby crape myrtle, another early bird will answer back with its own birdie song.