Monday, March 21, 2011

Madcap Monday -- the Spring (?) edition

I heard them before I could see them. And then there they were -- three massive V formations that spanned the width of the bright azure sky. The Canadian geese were back. With a hearty 'whoop' I called out to Ella and we welcomed our friends home. It was a perfect way to usher in the Spring Solstice. That was yesterday.

This is today.

While yesterday the snow seemed to recede before our eyes and the kids played baseball in sneakers and sweaters, today they bundled into their snowsuits before heading down the driveway to catch the bus.

I was feeling discouraged and down by the unexpected snowfall, but then Ella turned to me and said, "Mama, it's so beautiful." Then Jack said, "It's so quiet, too." They were right.

We lifted our heads and caught snowflakes on the tips of our tongues. After the children boarded the bus, I turned and walked towards the barn and I could feel the ground soften and squelch beneath my feet. Now back at my desk, I can hear the birds singing.

The changing of the seasons is an exercise in respect, patience and in letting go. Despite all the control we humans try to exert on her, Mother Nature is a much greater force than any of us. Spring will arrive when she is ready, not according to a date on the calendar.

Spring is a time for new beginnings. For me, that means cultivating a greater sense of acceptance and patience in my everyday.

So on that note, I wish you all a happy (belated) Spring Equinox and a day filled with peace, light and abundance!

6 comments:

Erin said...

That photo does look quiet, very beautiful. Congrats on the arrival of the birds!

Mama Pea said...

"Out of the mouths of babes . . . " Listen to your kiddlies!

We're seeing on and off sunshine here today and even that little bit is welcomed! I even thought about hanging wash outside today. But the idea passed quickly. (So hard to work those clothes pins with choppers on.)

mtnchild said...

I love when the birds arrive. I live at the narrowest part of the Pacific Flyway for all migrating birds on the Pacific Coast of the US. There is a field on the way to town that will be covered with a mixture of Canadian Geese and Snow Geese twice a year. It is absolutely fantastic when these flocks take off. I should pull over and take a picture the next time ...
Hugs
Yvette

936000 said...

Happy Spring to you too!

David said...

Fiona, Spring has arrived in my part of the country. We have a area not too far from my house that is a stopping place for the geese. There are literally thousands of them that stop for about a week to rest and eat there fill and then they're gone. It happens twice a year and supposedly is the most spectacular sight although I have never witnessed it. I really should go see the phenomena for myself. I will be out preparing the garden beds before the week is over. It's not time here to plant any thing but the most hardy things as it can freeze up until May 15th. Things like onions, lettuce, and radishes can be planted but the rest will have to wait. This year will be my first year to try to grow cold weather stuff like the above mentioned stuff so I will be pushing my envelope of gardening knowledge.

One thing I know for sure is those spring time snows don't really last too long and then they're gone.

Have a great snowy spring day.

fiona@fionacampbell.ca said...

Erin -- thanks! I do love the birds.

Mama Pea -- Kids do provide such wisdom, don't they! Love the mental pic of you hanging out the wash wearing choppers!

Yvette -- seeing those flocks would be fantastic! There is a place about an hour south of us where migrating birds visit. I've never been, but maybe I'll make the trip this year.

Calling Ravens -- thanks!

David -- that does sound spectacular! I know geese can be a real nuisance but I can't help getting all giddy when I hear them return from their winter rest. Have fun in your garden! It sounds like you're about a week ahead of us, as our last frost is around May 21st. I'm hoping to get some lettuce and spinach in the ground super early this year too. We can compare newbie gardener notes!

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