Waking up from hibernation. 

After a long, dark, and sleepy winter 

I’m stepping out into the light - 

squinting, stretching my arms to the sky, 

and ready to begin another cycle of the seasons. 

This grateful heart is smiling as I shake off 

the cold grip of an icy winter, 

shed some layers, and soften a bit. 

Unpretentious March!

Your raw, earthy beauty grows on me the older I get.

I appreciate your stripped-down authenticity:

No flowery offerings - you show me true grit.

I wouldn't want to live here with you forever,

but a few weeks with you teaches me resolve.

It is a humbling and necessary acquaintance.

A few days ago the warm sun was my companion!

 Now, I look out my window to see the snow is falling again. 

 The snow isn't as fierce, the cold isn't as biting. 

And along with the Equinox I feel inner momentum - 

 a sap rising within myself.  

Gumption has returned!  

All of the  seeds I planted during the 

dormant, sleepy winter are manifesting - 

no rush, in due time. 

Today I am building a fire 

and am once again sipping tea - 

but I have daffodils on my table to cheer me, 

and tomorrow will bring another story all of it’s own.

~j