I am participating in the March Slice of Life Story Challenge. Thanks to the co-authors of Two Writing Teachers for creating this supportive community.
Last Christmas I received a book of poems, Felicity, by Mary Oliver. It was a collection of hers that I did not own, and she is definitely a favorite. But for some reason I hadn’t found the right moment to read this work. Yesterday afternoon I saw it just laying there on the edge of my desk – an invitation. The very first poem, “Walking to Indian River” grabbed me. I quickly marked it with a post-it, then read the next poem. In a matter of just a few minutes I realized I was placing a post-it on nearly every poem!
The first lines of “Walking to Indian River” go like this:
I’m ready for spring, but it hasn’t arrived.
Not yet.
Still I take my walk, looking for any
early enhancements.
So, inspired by those words, I took a walk in my back yard, searching for signs of spring. There are still some patches of snow, but there are also tulips and daffodils reaching up through the soft, muddy earth. Their buds are tight, as if unwilling to let go until the air is warm and the sun is bright. The forsythia is trying, but may be losing the battle a bit this year. Still, hopefully there will be a sea, or at least a large lake, of yellow soon. The birds are returning. There was evidence of someone making a nest in one of the bluebird houses, although I could tell it was not a bluebird. Hopefully my bluebird friends will decide not to be bullied by the sparrows and will return this year. The cherry tree buds are small but abundant, whispering the promise of a full show by late April.
And then…this morning I woke to snow showers.
Imagine the Possibilities 
Oh no! I loved reading your noticings of spring’s arrival/early enhancementsl. It will come, but may still be a bit. Hang in there and keep noticing (even with snow showers).
LikeLiked by 1 person
Very nice! I love the little details of spring even with the snow on the ground and in the air! We are hoping for spring here in Minnesota as well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You share a poem and then take us on the walk it inspired. Wonderful observations. You commune with each plant, worrying about it’s chances.
They are hardy- these spring flowers- they can make it through that last snow!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Those signs of Spring are a welcome sight. We have even seen some robins.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love “whispering the promise” and a “lake of yellow.” Your backyard is always so beautiful in spring. I remember so many days writing our books, listening to and watching the birds, viewing your beautiful gardens! I miss all of it!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Love your description of your walk. So glad you had that invitation to inspire you!😊 I welcome spring with open arms! Can’t wait for it to be in full swing!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I was SHOCKED when the snow squall came through Central PA this morning. Even Ari went over to the window and said “‘Now, ‘now, ‘nohhhh!” when he saw it.
That said, my daffodils are starting to break through. Not sure when spring will truly get here, but I doubt it’ll be this week.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Perspective is everything!!! I guess the snow is good moisture for the flowers?? Thank you for sharing your inspiration.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks for the thoughtful post. I, too, am eager for spring!
LikeLiked by 1 person