The Gift of Spring

I started walking for exercise about 2 1/2 months ago. At first I had to make myself go. It was often cold, drizzly, and I was seriously out of shape. Slowly, I began to enjoy feeling more fit, having time to pray and reflect, and especially marveling at watching nature do what it does best.

Even during the cold and bleak weather, I loved seeing flower bulbs emerge, buds on the trees, and geese flying by the hundreds overhead. I even found a storm blown branch of curly willow that I gathered twigs from to take home. This week I'm thrilled to see the gorgeous colors of the dogwoods and lilacs blooming. I'm even seeing colorful birds I've never seen before. Today I am so grateful for the gift of spring!