First thing I'd do is look for bugs. Can't tell much from this shot as it is taken from too far away.

BN, that was really great description/comparison between the two. Thanks much for your input. Think you, Jan, and beegood are right on about it being a song sparrow! -mxyplx, maybe a new prescription is in order??? ;-) This guy isn't a Junco, but don't you just love those little guys? Never used to have them (or at least see them) around this particular area until a few years ago. Now they are all over the place and I am very glad of it! Think the ones around here may be the Oregon Junco... CMK

Yah, must be. Just on the smaller side? It's closer to 4.5". My bird book says closer to 6", which is what got me. Pretty little guy. At least my kids got to look at him.

Yes, sometimes this IDing the birds thing can make a newbie feel like she's gone a little "around the bend" as they say! :) Especially with all the species that are brown with stripes! LOL Thanks for writing, though, I appreciate the thought. I did realize that a photo would have made a huge difference in people being able to help me out, so I am going to keep my camera by my side and get my DH to work with me on posting photos. Thanks again for writing - I check in here every day because I haven't enjoyed anything like backyard birding in a long time. Your humor was appreciated. :)