First signs of spring

I have been feeling very whimsical about spring coming. We have had such a mild, pleasant winter that its has felt like spring for a while now. The trees are budding, the tulips and just bursting from the ground and my weeping cherry tree is in full bloom. There are even pink hyacinths blooming under the tree. It is such a wonderful feeling when the seasons change. There is a sense of excitement in the air. Fall and spring are my favorite seasons because they are the changing seasons, with the awakening of the ground in spring and the settling in for rest in the fall.

The first sign of spring I look for are the Robins. Their bright red breast and chipper call always tell me it is time. The spring showers are in full force here today on the farm and all morning I have been watching the Robins doing their funny little run across the yard listening for worms. Have you ever sat a watched a Robin run across the ground then suddenly stop, tilt it's head, and listen for the silent creeping of a worm. I am always fascinated by this little dance. What do they hear? What does a worm sound like? What makes them stop and listen? Funny little birds with their flash of white around their eyes.

I found this cute little children's poem on a teaching website and I thought I would share it with you. You can think of it the next time you see a Robin splashing around in a puddle or birdbath.

The Robin's Bath
by Evaleen Stein

A flash and flicker of dripping wings,

A wet red breast that glows

Bright as the newly opened bud

The first red poppy shows,
A sparkle of flying rainbow drops,

A glint of golden sun

On ruffled feathers, a snatch of song,

And the robin's bath is done.

I also wanted to share with you a wonderful book on nature called The Country Dairy of an Edwardian Lady" by Edith Holden. It is not a common book, and is not in print anymore. But it is the most beautifully drawn and detailed book about nature. This woman had a wonderful knowledge of the country around her and the beautiful talent for drawing the things she saw.

This is a book that I have wanted for a very long time. It is one of the books that I am always on the look out for when I find a book sale or antiques store. Someday I will stumble across one and make it a treasure. I hope you enjoy it if you ever come across it. Enjoy the bird music and spring slide show too. Happy spring.

I am off to my Mom's for a couple days of crafting, so be on the lookout for a giveaway! Have a great weekend.