Allured by Spring

My new hanging basket! I can see it from my kitchen window!



Lilacs are in full bloom! The fragrance is amazing!


It has been way too long since I posted! My apologies. I shall try to do better.

First, my husband and I went to Missouri to visit my dad and his wife, as well as my oldest sister and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Then when I returned, I was allured outside by spring! Couldn't help myself!

The days have been sunny and beautiful, so I have been pruning roses, planting my garden, and anything else I can find to do to stay outside. I love to visit the various garden centers and nurseries this time of year. The colors of blooming things are intoxicating.

The bird baths are filled with fresh water. My porch swing is hanging on the front porch. Want to stop by for lemonade or iced tea?

Bring on Spring!

Swollen buds on my lilac bushes.

First tips of crocus amidst some dead leaves.

Daffodils shoots in my rose bed.

Weeds always show up! But at least they are a sign of spring!

Nothing like a nasty cold and cough to make me ready for spring! (I have coughed until my muscles all ache. And I have taken more drops and teas and concoctions than I care to innumerate.) Then we have had so much more snow this winter than normal. I think we had snow at least once a week for eight weeks straight---some of them were biggies.

Yes, bring on spring! I am ready for green grass and leaves. I am ready for blooming bulbs in assorted colors.I am ready for warm sunshine streaming in my east windows. I want to walk in the fresh air and talk to my neighbors. I want to shed the heavy coats and turtlenecks.

I'm delighted to begin noticing the first signs of spring. The daylight lasts longer. The daffodils and crocus bulbs are pushing up out of the soil. Buds are swelling on the tips of my lilac bush. I see a hint of green in the lawn. These little traces all give me hope for what lies ahead.

I think we all need something to look forward to. Anticipation gives us the spark of hope that moves us forward. Maybe you are like me, awaiting the arrival of spring. Or perhaps you are anticipaiting a trip, lunch with a friend, or finishing a some project. Regardless of whether these things are big or small, we must cherish them, knowing that they infuse us with a small morsel of hope and joyful anticipation.

In a little over a week, I will once again be saying "good-bye" to my oldest daughter, her husband, and their three darling children as they return to Bosnia. Now that---I am NOT looking forward too. I hate how much that hurts a grandma's heart! In spite of this difficult hurdle in my near future, I am trying to find things to look forward to after that. Perhaps a little anticipation in other areas of my life will get me beyond the feelings of loss.

Blessing to all of you!
Marlene