Spring time

Living in Southern California makes it difficult to recognize the beginning of a new season. But it is here and taking time to feel spring is just as important as to "see" spring.


Stop for a moment. We all have very hectic schedules, mine may be even more so than yours, but no excuses. Just stop. Close your eyes.

Inhale deeply. Maybe you smell new turned soil. It is the time to ready our gardens for the flowers, for the herbs, for the vegetables that we will enjoy throughout the summer and the fall. For us here in SoCal we may even enjoy throughout the year. Plant something new.This year I am planting Bee Balm, Anise hyssop, Feverfew, Lemon Balm, sweet gardenia and mint. These I will steep into teas. Oregano,basil, thyme, and cilantro are growing in pots in my garden window in the kitchen. These will flavor the dishes I make throughout the year.

Listen carefully. I am fortunate enough to have two aviaries in my yard so my life is always filled with the sounds of birds. If you are not so fortunate then listen for the songs of the birds in your town. Listen closely. Can you hear the message of new birth in their voices? You may even be able to hear the building of their nests as they prepare for the hatching of their young. Listen more intently. The buzzing of the bees busy about their work and the soft swish of butterfly wings, the sound of the hummingbirds (yes, as my daughter has taught me, as they swoop down) can be heard on the wind.

Feel the warmth and the rain on your skin. Each of us, like Mother Earth, requires sun and water to survive. Step out of your doorway. Get out of your car and walk. Allow your skin to be warmed ( respectful of the danger of too much sun). Feel the quenching of your body, of your skin, with nature's own shower. Splash through the puddles!

But most of all. Stop and breathe. Enjoy!!!!!