The Sanctuary of Springtime

I can see it when I peek out the window towards the Eastern sky. That certain blush of pinkish orange touching the top of Farmer Matt’s barn. Bright and up-lifting. I just know the day will be full of possibility. I can feel it when I take the dogs out for their morning constitutional. That hint of warm breeze against my cheek, even though I am bundled up for the cold. I can smell it, and hear it, and almost taste it. The muddy earth under thawing piles of crusty snow. The birds, all twitterpated with this excitement. Spring! I can almost taste the season.

Growing up in Washington, March almost always heralded the new buds, warm breezes, and anxious nest-building birds of Springtime. I could eagerly begin planning my gardens and herb beds. I could anticipate with a gardener’s glee storing the Winter coats and breaking out the tee-shirts and bare feet. East Cornfield, Indiana is another matter all together. March rolls around and teases us with just that hint of warmth and those tiny lilac buds, and I get excited. I survived another Winter onslaught. I can see the light!

But LO! Wait for it, wait…..more snow in the forecast. Temperatures dropping below zero. Parkas and wool socks for another 6 weeks. It’s so darn frustrating. It’s a slog! I’m just ready to say goodbye to Winter.

I need to take the advice of my own flock of chickens and relax. Breathe! The season flows with its own rhythm, I can’t force it, especially here in Indiana. But I can begin planning. Oh, I do love to plan. (Insert cheesy grin right about here.)

Spring has become a hugely anticipated season for me living here on the farm. And yes, I can feel those tiny inklings of Spring in the energy of each moment. I look forward to sharing ideas for growing and using herbs with you; wild-harvesting and creating Spring tonics; and crafting simple, natural products for our healthy bodies and souls.

Spring is a time for renewal and new projects and longer days and hopefully MORE sunshine!

A LOT more sunshine.