I am fed porridge for breakfast each morning! For flavoring it contains some stewed fruit from our trees that has been frozen and now defrosted. This breakfast I willingly share with some members of the local bird population. They have their own metal dog dish in which, early each morning, I place some kibble and water for their daily sustenance. Liquorice always watches and while undoubtedly thinking that it is a waste of good kibble she accepts that it is not her food to take. As I said, breakfast time has me sharing my porridge with the little birdies, spooning out as much as I dare into their dogdish. I then hit the side of their dish several times with my spoon to alert them that breakfast is served! When Liquorice is outside she watches with interest but does not disturb. If she is inside then she knows from the metallic sounds what has happened. We are creatures of habit in this household. This morning we followed this same time honored ritual only, when I returned, Liquorice was giving me an odd quizzical look. She seemed confused and I could not figure out why! My little darling had no interest in the tidbits being offered as she sat in her usual position at the head of the table. Liquorice was definitely disturbed, and obviously, by what I had done outside. I had done something. She did not know what it was. Liquorice was becoming more and more concerned, looking toward the back door and, I thought, was considering depriving us of her presence at the breakfast table. Then I remembered! I had forgotten to hit the bird’s dogdish with my spoon. So, spoon in hand, I went outside once more and this time I did alert the birds to their fate, I mean porridge. Returning inside once more there was Liquorice, happy and content. Life’s natural order was restored!
Arthur Witten
Liquorice – My Dad is getting forgetful in his old age!