When Robins Appear, Loved Ones Are Near

I started writing this in my usual method of doing a deep dive into the internet. I set out to discover more about our unofficial national bird and fell down a rabbit hole deeper than the one in Alice in Wonderland. From poetry to art, the robin has inspired and continues to inspire people throughout the world. The robin is synonymous with Christmas, thanks to the Victorians, and spiritually it is thought to mean a passed loved one is near. The best factoid I found was about the robin's territorialism around it's nest, and I couldn't help but smile at the image of this ball of fluffy cuteness transformed into a flappy, furious angry bird as it tries to scare away predators. For me, the robin brings to mind my Grandad and memories of love and laughter.

Grandad's Garden

My grandad loved his garden. He grew cabbages, sprouts, and rhubarb in his corner plot. The post-war semi-detached house came with a small front garden, which led to an enviable large corner plot. There was a smaller shared garden at the rear (it would be called a yarden today with its concrete crazy paving, metal link fencing, and raised beds) , which was put to good use in the heatwave of 1976. He used to put an upturned bin lid on the ground, when bin lids were round, detachable, and with a central handle. It was filled with water, its off-centre tilt and rim making it a perfect suburban oasis for garden birds. This makeshift bird bath was visible from the kitchen window so Grandad could keep an eye out for any feathered friends. We heard him shout, ‘Come see the spuggy’s have a bath!’ And we’d race through, to be lifted up to see over the kitchen sink. When a robin visited, you’d think the Queen was coming to tea. I remember the hushed delight, alongside the real palpable fear of scaring it away as it took its bath, momentarily oblivious to the gawkers at the window. There were other visitors to the garden, some unwanted. My grandad's fury when a cat was seen in the garden still gets talked about amongst the cousins today.

A Symbol of Love and Memory

This is why when I see a robin, I always think about my grandad. I like to think he’s watching over me, and it gives me an opportunity to think of him, my nanna, and that garden. When I drew that robin, it brought warm memories and giggles, and I hope by adding it to your home, it brings to mind your loved ones during the Christmas season.