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The sweet picture of the nest in the mailbox prompted me to share a little story about nests:

When a guest enters my home, the first thing seen is an antique curio.
On each shelf, is a display of bird nests;
some are very small, other larger.
Those that don't know me well, often ask why?
What is the significance of nests?

My answer may sound silly to some, or give food for thought to others:

Nests represent so many things to me:

The preparation and building
Where every small addition is of great significance
The planning for, and care of a family,
A warm, cozy safe haven, with protection from the elements,
The beginning of life and a place for growth
A room where there is always nutritious food and nuturing care.
And above all, a home
A home filled with love.

From The Nightingale's Nest

By John Clare

How curious is the nest ; no other bird
Uses such loose materials, or weaves
Its dwelling in such spots : dead oaken leaves
Are placed without, and velvet moss within,
And little scraps of grass, and, scant and spare,
What scarcely seem materials, down and hair ;
For from men's haunts she nothing seems to win.
Yet Nature is the builder, and contrives
Homes for her children's comfort, even here ;

The poem is lovely and can be read in it's entirety, here