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March 10, 2010
Sweet Spring
It is the sweetness of a new leaf just emerging from a seemingly lifeless branch, its tender shades of greens hinting of pale pinks and violets ... those first fresh signs of Spring. Soft rains deeply soak, awakening all underground, and cleansing all above.
There are many signs that arise. Birds start a song and dance ritual that changes the entire mood of the outdoors. I often go trance-like when their ethereal songs stream in, as they seem to come from some higher source. I think these songs rouse something within all who hear them. Squirrels play in fast motion, moving from one large tree to another in what looks like a risky, high-wire circus act. I often wonder where they have been all winter... huddling somewhere in those bare trees, no doubt.
At this time of year, I must step gently across the surface of my backyard, which consists of a lot of mud, sparse patches of grass, weeds and those ever-popular piles neatly left behind by our four dogs. I have a thing going with the bird feeder, which sits in a area that trails past one of the dog’s favorite spots. It gets tricky keeping it full, but it is oh-so-worth the effort.
Sitting in my office, I watch them. They often come in groups and/or pairs. Usually a squirrel is hanging up side down while another one is on the ground... they seem to watch each other’s back. The one in the tree has a unique approach to get to those seeds. I worry that my one dog, who seems to always be “switched on” hunting mode, might be quick enough with a surprise attack if he loses his grip.
Sometimes a beautiful pair of Cardinals arrive, or some Blue Jays, but there are usually a few doves along with those little Sparrows, which manifest in social groups. Their chatter is melodious and often seems synchronized. Occasionally I get a rare treat... some Rosy Finches or some other unusual species of Finch, but in truth, I do not spend that much time at this window.
There is also this strong urge to get my hands dirty - to grow a garden. I have been lapse in starting the process which should have begun a month ago, as our climate warms up much too fast for some things to do well if you wait too long to get them into the ground – mostly tomatoes. With all else I am doing, I am thinking I will probably just start a compost and build a small fence to keep critters out - my dog critters, actually. A garden should be done in small steps if you haven’t done it in years. I am okay with this idea.
Like all life around us, I am also feeling the need to bring forth new growth, and as an artist, creating more in my studio is a good place to start.
Thank you Goddess of Spring for gracing us, once again... we welcome your gift of primal energy and new life!
Posted by kay at March 10, 2010 07:05 PM