For the Birds

Could Birds by Kevin Henkes be the most perfect picture book, ever?  It has everything a picture book SHOULD have - vibrant, striking illustrations, a story both imaginative AND excellent as a read-aloud (two things that are sometimes mutually exclusive), and a universal theme we can all appreciate (is there anyone who hasn't marveled at a bird?).  In all its simplicity, this is a magical little book.  My library copy is due soon, and I fear I may rack up some fines with this one.

In honor of Birds, I give you a recipe for homemade bird treats.  My daughter and I made these treats in February, and it was a successful first recipe for her to try.  Much of the recipe is taken from Family Fun magazine, with a few alterations made by me.

1 c. unsalted butter, softened

3 eggs, beaten

3 1/2 c. all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking soda

1 1/2 tasp. cream of tartar

1/2 tsp. salt

Peanut butter

Mixed birdseed

Cream butter, then beat in eggs.  In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.  Gradually add dry ingredients to butter and eggs mixture.  Chill for one hour.  On a lightly floured surface, roll dough to desired thickness and cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Using a drinking straw, make one or two holes at the top of the shape.  Place on cookie sheets and bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes.  Cool on wire racks.  When cookies have cooled, thread yarn through the holes and secure with a knot (I like to imagine that the birds use the yarn for their nests when they are done eating the cookies).  Spread peanut butter over both sides of cookies and press into birdseed.  Hang on a tree limb or bird feeder on a dry, sunny day.  What a feast for your feathered friends!