Awakening to spring
It’s mud season, as evidenced on Hartland Hill Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)
The brightness of an earth renewed illuminated the landscape to mark the first day of spring 2021 on Saturday. As the ground softens and new life takes root, the world is awakening and stretching its dormant roots.
The abundant plant life anticipates the changes, seeking the light of spring. People also embrace that light, welcoming the promise of springtime with its renewal, hope and vibrancy. The air on Saturday was full of that promise, and during our first family bike ride of the year, we could just feel that peace, the calming approach of that familiar season. Riding down the road, the sun fell on newly exposed muddy ground, brooks near the road bubbled, and birds greeted the open air with song. I loved the sense of family we experienced as we continued our ride. Just as the trees are rooted, the togetherness we felt also had a firm foundation we took with us as we enjoyed the afternoon.
In Woodstock Village, people walked the streets, some also biked, and customers filled the socially-distanced patio seating at Mon Vert Cafe, joyfully taking in the first day of spring. Nearby at Woodstock Sports, the crowds were coming through as well. The sunnier days have certainly brought more customers, especially to the bike shop, Woodstock Sports co-owner Peter Johnston said.
"We get calls pretty much every day," he said regarding the bikes. The store has seen a fair amount of business lately from families who have moved to the area within the past year, and are looking to tune-up their bikes, or get new sneakers or other outdoor wear.
"Hiking is going to be very strong this year," Johnston noted. "Everybody wants to get outside."
Like other warmer days, Saturday seemed to bring even more of that business, with its high approaching 60 degrees.
"It's a beautiful first day of spring, you can't ask for more than that," Johnston said.
The good news is, that pattern is set to continue into the week, per local forecasts. Saturday is the first in a string of four sunny days coming up, each with temps in the low- to mid-60s.
With that, as the winter weather gradually fades, we look forward to more signs of spring. The ever-warming air fills us with the joyful feeling that a new season is on its way. This year, that feeling carries something extra with it, the hope of a very different year from the past 12 months. The harmonious beauty and vibrancy of spring encourage us to continue toward that goal, at this annual time of renewal. As we look forward to the full effect of spring, let's embrace hope for one another and nurture that precious sense of community we so cherish. That provides a firm foundation for progress, and a source of strength that never runs out.
— Gareth Henderson
