In which I am grateful for Spring

Spring is fully upon us. Many trees are casting out buds, some are full of fresh, tender green leaves. The green grass is overtaking the dead brown grass, and from a distance, looks lush and green. Birds are filling the trees with their songs. It rains. Winter was so mild and anticlimactic, but still, I’m excited for the transition to Spring.

I have realized that Spring not only awakens the earth, but it also awakens me. Last year especially, in the fog of anemia and a sorrowful late winter, Spring was a comfort and reawakening for me.

These days, I see Spring in a different light. Again, I look at myself as something blooming, a tree casting forth buds. For me, that looks like reclaiming practices that make me strong and happy. Seeking opportunities to grow and heal. And hopefully, God willing, receiving the much yearned for news that our family will grow. Spring just feels like the time to grow.

I’m also grateful for the turn of the seasons, as it means that we can make more trips outdoors. My adventures with Little Lion have taken on a new shape every year for the last three years. From him being a tiny baby who would sleep on walks, to beginning to toddle and paying more attention to his surroundings, to wanting to be actively involved, walking and running on his own… it really has changed.

Sometimes I mourn those “easier” days, where I could just grab him, buckle him in his stroller and go on my own whim. Now, I must balance his desires with mine, as well as the reality of “we have to get home for a nap!” I know that those precious early days will never be repeated, because I will always have Little Lion to watch out for, even when we add new babies to our family. Walks will certainly look different then too. I’m learning to take the changes as they come and release the old ways. It is hard though. I’m sentimental, my memory is long, and changing is a challenge.

Regardless, I wish you a Happy Spring! I hope you can find much joy and renewal in this changing of the seasons!

Sierra