Spring arrived unceremoniously last Friday. Even though in New Brunswick, where I live, winter doesn’t often let go graciously, the air smells different. There is strength in the sunshine when it dispels the clouds. There’s still quite a nip in the north wind, but there are strong signs that winter’s grip is loosening.
On the weekend, I made a trip to Fredericton. The journey includes a couple of steep hills, including Kierstead and Snider “mountains”. At the higher elevation, snow blanketed the trees and fields, while the road was bare.
By the time I was on the road home, much of it had melted away, and the St. John River was almost completely open.
There was little wind, leaving the river’s surface smooth as glass, and the bridge was reflected on the surface. As the snow from the northern part of the province melts, the spot where I was standing will, no doubt, be under water as the river rises to the annual spring flood level. We hope for a slow melt, as a fast one can cause severe flooding.
With the snow gone, the winter collection of ditch detritus is on display. It always saddens me to see what little care some people show for the planet that sustains them.
Meanwhile, our neighbourhood beavers have been busy repairing their dam as the melting ice and fast-flowing water ripped some of last year’s efforts away. Listening to the running water reminds me that the seasons have changed. Longer, warmer days are ahead!
Back at home, I could tell there’d be some cleanup required on the deck railing. Birds dining at our feeders left some souvenirs behind. But, it won’t be long until I can make use of our plant hangers and fill pots with fragrant flowers to enjoy while sitting on the deck, enjoying an aromatic coffee!
Happy Spring Everyone!
Capturing Cherished Memories 