Could it be....Spring?

They say winter isn't over just yet, but we've had some glorious sunny weather that has melted most of the snow; at first, I was sad the snow was gone because it was how I related to my surroundings, the blanket of white. But now, the plants are peeking out of the ground and the animals seem to be rejoicing in this warmer reprieve... I even saw a bunny frolicking about the other day. Oh joy, it must be Spring!

I, too, am ready to come out of hibernation. For the first time, we donned down vests instead of parkas, and headed out on foot to find the Lee Reservoir. We walked down the street, past the flowing Housatonic River, over the bridge and then followed the creek upstream. It is nice to see rushing water again and hear the sounds of nature reawakening.

At the very top of the hill, we stumbled upon Leahey Farm, started in the early 1800s and has been in the same family ever since. They have cows and chickens and horses. They raise healthy, chemical free beef, and wonderful green blue eggs, which we were gifted with-so nice! They are about our age and doing everything they can to improve the quality of the soil naturally and be organic farmers and spread the word of their farm products locally.

They were wonderful to meet and it is nice to know there are people here who care about the land, preserving it and making a sustainable farm work, which is not easy in this day and age. I will make them some muffins and drop them over to thank them for the eggs, seems mighty country-friendly-like, dontcha think?

Their black and white dog escorted us the rest of the way, past their farm and straight up to the reservoir. He seemed to know just where to go....running ahead, and then waiting for us to catch up. As we neared further into the forest, the snow got thicker and the wind did pick up some, but we finally made it to the top to find the reservoir still frozen over, but an unbelievable view of the valley below. We even were able to spot our farmhouse all the way across many many acres of meadow, off in the distance. It is a beautiful place, this Berkshires...I can see it as a place that is easy to live, with kind people and a connection to nature and the arts that is strong. Our time here may be limited, but for me at least, it is so enriching to be here. Especially, in the quality of time I am getting with my family.

I am drinking this all in, trying to be useful, of service and be a good listener. I have enjoyed every moment so far...I think after 2 months, we are finding our rhythm together. Casey, of course, is a superstar and so nurturing, I could not ask for a more caring soul to walk this life with. And not only is he gentle, he is smart too....he's already been accepted to 2 out of 4 schools so far!! We're waiting to hear back from the other two, one of them Berkeley, his first choice school. Keep fingers crossed!! I am so proud of him.

And for now, I am present to the longer days, the feeling of all life waking up.... I had forgotten how special the change of seasons are....even Nola is exploring outside now too. We hope your Spring brings a renewed sense of wellbeing and vitality and that you too, are enjoying this soul-stirring cycle of the seasons. What seeds are you planting?