Spring’s Eccentricities

In the spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.”–Mark Twain

I do believe that Mark Twain must have spent a good many springs in Texas. Spring won’t be officially here for several more days, but it is already up to its shenanigans. Even before February waved its final goodbye, we had some warm days mixed with cold ones, but having light, cold rain one day, 96 degrees Fahrenheit on another, and a freeze on a day or two down the road from that is a bit rambunctious even for March and its pre-spring madness. I guess like the rest of us, spring has a right to a few mood swings, but I am beginning to be concerned for its health. Perhaps spring is showing out, not to be outdone by the much-acclaimed solar eclipse rapidly heading our way. I feel duty-bound to be enthused about the eclipse which we should be able to view (at least in part) from our home. But for some reason, I haven’t managed the enthusiasm yet. Still, I’m sure there is hope for me.

We, my husband and I, are getting rather excited about “yard work,” though. The grass is greening. We’ve visited some garden stores, bought a few hanging plants and pots for the patio, lugged out the potting soil, unwrapped a couple or three rose bushes–you know, that sort of thing. Though I love fall and like winter, I’m feeling a bit refreshed by the coming of spring. Yes, there will be warm, hot, and cold days mixed about for a while, but there is something about the reemergence of life, the awakening of trees, plants, and animals, and the birth of a spate of calves, that lifts the spirit each year.

I have been busy with a number of activities I take part in, with preparations for more such activities, and with preparations for signings and appearances regarding my book Ranch Girl and the Orphan Lamb Adventure that Pelican Publishing/Arcadia released in February. I am blessed with a sweet and supportive community of people and dear friends who have been excited for me. The most important thing this side of heaven, I believe, is the people around you.

So–we need to bear up while spring toys with us for a bit. I know we are at different stages of the emerging season; but for most of us, spring will not allow much boredom.