Today spring knocks on my door. The sun shines, the wind, instead of throwing winter in my face, whispers, “Soon. Soon.” Getting out of the car, I shed one sweatshirt, then put my jacket back on, still warm enough. Gloves go into pockets a few minutes later.
The river still overflows its banks after rain on top of snow some days earlier, a log jam of nature’s detritus pushing against the dam. Water jets out the other side where today no heron fishes, but sunshine sparkles on the rushing water.
A squirrel sits frozen next to the path, not moving until I do, then scampering further along the mat of brown fall leaves. Although the prevailing color is still brown, a closer look reveals slender shoots of green and in some places, blatant leaves of some unknown but hardy plant. In my lawn perhaps it would be a weed, but here a welcome sign of spring. Red-winged blackbirds make their presence loudly known, although in fewer numbers than in another month or two.
Next to the damp path, mud and water discourage off-trail wandering. When I reach the open part of the trail, I think how good it will be once the trees leaf, blocking the houses on the park perimeter so I feel even less part of the city. I realize again how this time alone, away from people and city trappings, is a vital part of my inner peace, nature stopping me from even acknowledging the unceasing sounds of traffic. I spread my arms with uncontainable joy, turning in a circle near where the tracks of deer crossed the path, the softer surface exposing the paths the summer trail hides. I know winter might come again, but there is the beating promise, under the skin of the earth, of spring, of growth, of re-birth, and that, for today, is more than enough.
Very good!
Thanks, Sue. I hope you’re having some harbingers of spring as well.
janet
Oh, not while the Beast lurks!
I’m sure winter will return, but I doubt it will stay very long. We are close.
60 here today and then back into the 40’s. It’s a tease, but I’m enjoying it.
janet
I feel your enthusiasm.
I hope you’re feeling the same thing there, Sally.
janet
Who needs a camera? You gave us a wonderful picture of your morning with nary a pixel harmed. Thanks, Janet.
Ω
That’s a lovely compliment, Allan, and shows I succeeded in what I attempted. (Of course, I did take some photos.) 🙂
Always have backup.
Ω
I can feel the excitement of fresh starts, renewal, and new opportunities in your writing. Spring really is so inspiring! This is a lovely tribute to one of the best times of year.
I’m happy you enjoyed it, Hannah.
janet
Lovely! I always find solace in nature.
I do, too. 🙂 Free therapy!
janet
Very poetic! It’s cold and was raining here. But things are blooming.
We had cold and snow, then rain and a huge mess but warm, then some sun, and today, back to rain later according to the forecast. Nothing’s blooming, but as you’ll see in today’s post, sprouting is occurring. 🙂
janet
So good to have a space away from the madding crowds
Very true, especially for me. I’d say vital.
janet
We have snowdrops and crocuses in bloom. At mom’s, just next door, her daffodils and hyacinths are blooming. I’m ready, although I must admit I enjoy a bit of winter to sweeten the spring. 🙂
I’m really looking forward to those beauties, Marian!
janet
Lovely writing. I share your sentiments.
Thanks, Joey. I hope you’re enjoying the weekend.
janet