Bursting Into Spring

Our return to Virginia has placed us right in the middle of early spring. Yesterday evening Maranda, Kieran, and I wandered through the backyard checking on the chickens and seeing all the flowers that are bursting into view. As we sat on the bench in the center of our backyard, the chickens were quietly scratching, crocus and daffodils were visible all over the yard, and we could see the buds swelling and just starting to leaf out on the towering silver and red maples that adorn the fringes of our yard. A warm breeze drifted through the yard and it was one of those still late afternoons where everything around you seems so present, so alive.

I realize that spring may not have come yet for your household, but do trust that it is right around the corner! It never gets old to watch the transition from the greys of winter to the greens of spring. This year I find myself especially looking forward to this advent, as it has been a particularly tough winter for us and many that we love. Spring is so filled with hope as the land heals itself from the ravages of winter. Green grass is already starting to cover the mud and disturbed earth in my back yard. I am reminded that my life also has seasons, that dryness and darkness are often followed by new growth and surprising beauty.