When I was young, I heard the phrase “bright eyed and bushy tailed” a lot.
It was the way my family noted that you were full of energy.
Cheerful and ready to go.
The origin of the quote is believed to be from the image of a squirrel.
With its bright eyes and bushy tail, appearing lively and ready for action.
We use it to describe someone who is enthusiastic and eager.
Especially when others might be tired or unenthusiastic.
I’m guessing the phrase is associated most often with morning larks….
Not so much for night owls.
I can see why I heard it a lot.
Mornings are when I’m at my best.
Up quickly and ready for the day ahead.
While I love being bright eyed and bushy tailed, I appreciate others are not.
I wonder if night owls hear the phrase from others in the evening?
When a lark is winding down and tired, the night owls emerge with their energy.
My husband and kids are all night owls.
I see the energy.
Yet, I’ve never called them bright eyed and bushy tailed.
Maybe it’s time to bring the phrase back!
Your Turn
Does / did your family use the phrase bright eyed and bushy tailed?
When in your day, does this phrase most apply to you?
How can you start to notice the time when the energy of those around you peaks?