Woodpeckers remind us to keep listening, keep looking, and keep tapping into our possibilities. They are symbols of curiosity, courage, and persistence, all qualities every storyteller needs for success. There’s more! Endurance, hard labor, and tenacity aren’t bad qualities either.

Outside my writing window, two regular visitors land: a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers, Carl and Julia. They tap away at the suet block and a dead French Lilac tree they’ve been hollowing out. Lately, they’ve been bringing their toddlers along. The little ones hang awkwardly, perfecting their balance one fall at a time. But don’t worry, no one’s been harmed yet.