This morning’s backyard scene gave me a little heart-flutter of joy—and not the mystery kind! A proud mama turkey marched across my yard with eight fuzzy little poults trotting behind her like tiny, feathery detectives on a mission. It’s been a few years since we’ve had baby turkeys around here, likely thanks to the three coyotes who roam the neighborhood like the shady suspects in any good whodunit.

We usually have a flock of about 13 mature turkeys who strut and flap about like they own the place—but this little family was something special. Mama kept a sharp eye on her crew while the babies darted and scrambled like Keystone Cops, every rustle in the grass sending them skittering in different directions. It was more comedy than crime scene, and I couldn’t stop smiling.

There’s something comforting about nature carrying on, especially with a touch of drama and humor. (Sound familiar?) It reminded me of the balance we love in cozy mysteries—a bit of chaos, a bit of suspense, and a whole lot of heart.

Back inside, I found myself imagining a mystery plot involving a secret message hidden in a trail of turkey tracks. Would the amateur sleuth follow the breadcrumbs—or breadcrumbs of cracked corn? Who knew the local wildlife could be such good inspiration?

Until next time, stay curious, keep cozy, and maybe peek outside—you never know what kind of mystery might waddle by.

Love a good mystery with a bit more danger and sophistication? Don’t miss
Brushed By Danger—where journalist Maya Rodgers finds herself tangled in a web of secrets, stolen art, and high-society intrigue as she hunts down a missing Rembrandt in London’s elite art world.
Can she uncover the truth before it disappears forever?