A Slow Goodbye

We are six days into Spring, and the snow is gently falling. 

Yesterday, the weather was truly spring-like, reaching into the low 60's.

The children, thrilled to be out of the house 

and not bogged down in mud, 

spent the day playing in the sunshine; 

in shirt sleeves and shorts, despite my

prostestations that wasn't *that* warm out.

Daddy and Logan took advantage of the beautiful day and 

spent it re-decking the porch

and giving it new stairs. 

Both of which were desperately needed.

Later today, after the snow quit falling 

and there was a lull in the rain,

they returned to the porch, 

making it a bit safer for the little set,

adding rustic posts and top rails made of branches 

blown off our trees this past winter.

Apple branches will likely be the lower rails, but until we can

get them brought home, 

1x2's make for temporary railing.

I love these early Spring days, 

bringing the urgency of outdoor projects 

and new life.

Raking the yard, beginning to prepare the garden area,

fixing broken windows in the greenhouse.

Checking on the berry bushes and herbs

planted last year

and

seeing leaves beginning to bud 

and plants starting to green.

And yet amidst that, there are still remnants of Winter.

Cold winds, rain, snow.

Weather perfect for settling in next to the fire

with a hot cup of tea and my Bible ~

or a small child

or three

and a pile of picture books.

While each season holds its own fascination,

tugging at my heart for reasons

no other season has,

Winter is truly my favorite.

I love the quietness brought by snow,

the warmth imbued to a cold winter night by lights 

shining through windows.

I love the romance and coziness of candlelight and fire,

I love flannel and woolens

and all things snuggle worthy.

And so, while everyone else runs out the door 

and embraces the first flush of Spring,

I move slowly toward it,

savoring the dying embers of Winter's life.

Soon enough, Spring will be here in full force ~

no turning back.

And then, for her moment,

she will be my favorite.

Until then, I will cherish these last moments 

with my dear Winter.