Mine would have to be the unmistakable chatter of a red squirrel telling me off as I’m walking down a trail. OK, he’s really just warning his pals that there might be danger, but imagining he’s putting me in my place makes me smile, every time.
A few days ago, when I returned home from a day of hiking, I noticed that the mail included a postcard – something that is becoming rare these days, but always a welcome surprise among the bills and flyers. My friend had been traveling in the southern US and recommended music festivals in New Orleans and Pensacola.
She was so enthusiastic about these events that I was encouraged to take up the guitar again – almost. I decided to be kind to my neighbours’ ears and went to listen to local talent instead. This time of year, great outdoor music is easy to find – at a street corner, a festival or in the forest.
Play Outside Now 
Well I’ve temporarily taken up the clarinet again (in order to join a marching band in the Calgary Stampede Parade). I have been ordered by my family to practice only in the basement – if I practice outside it scares the squirrels, robins, neighbours …