Pansies! I couldn't resist these delightful harbingers of spring with their pale pink/peachy/lavender shade of spring. Although I adore autumn with it's deep jewel-tone colors, cool mornings, and warm afternoons; gorgeous pumpkins, fresh, fragrant apples and mums in bloom... Oh wait, I really love winter too. The cool winter white landscape with shades of blue in the snow shadows; short days and long winter nights beside the wood burning stove and herbal tea in the kettle. Autumn is my absolute favorite season yet winter is divine. Although, although I adore the cold seasons of the year I really am in love with spring! I find spring to be filled with potential as evidenced by seed packets, new projects, and later sunsets every day. I love perusing herb, flower and vegetable catalogs and cut out photos and advertisements with interesting color combinations for my art journal. I use these swatches of inspiration all year long. I visit my beloved plants, once again returning, every day to check on new growth: roses, lavender, mint, flowering quince, pineapple sage, lemon catnip, feverfew, echinacea, heather, calendula, honeysuckle and pansies!!! Oh my. At this point, the daffodils are fading but the lilies are just starting to break ground; they're my favorite flower. (for today anyway)
The season of spring has it's own energy too. There's a slight humming in the air and a decidedly noticeable shimmer and sparkle. The hummingbirds are starting to return and the osprey nest is once again a hub of activity. We have plans for spring hiking and evening picnics along the creeks and lakes in our region. Lake Siskiyou is right around the corner. It is a total delight to say 'these are the people in my neighborhood' when I'm talking about the oaks, cedars, and pines that make up the forest where we live. As the weather is warming I now have the chance to get into the garage which doubles as the art studio. Whoop! Although, I have learned that paint doesn't freeze; even when there is so much snow in front of the door that I can't get in. (for months) Spring also signifies the end of the school year which means SUMMER VACATION! In other words, I have a strong sense of anticipation and enthusiasm. So yes, I love spring.