Over the Backyard Fence

Spring heralds its arrival in so many ways, but I think we all have those moments that say, ‘Aha! This is a sure sign for me!’

We returned home from our trip to find the Chanticleer pear tree in the front yard filled with blossoms. The lawn shows patches of green, and the daffodils that had sprouted before we left are already starting to fade.

But the sure sign of spring for me this week was seeing my first tree swallow. Swallows usually arrive on their migration to our state about this time, and the tree swallow with its irridescent blue and green back, and gleaming white breast is the first of the species to arrive. On my walk yesterday, several flew about doing their impressive acrobatic twists and turns, their long pointed wings and short tails unmistakeable. 

Yet another sure sign is when the daphne shrub in our front yard comes into bloom. I usually notice its heavy, sweet fragrance before noticing its delicate pink and white flowers. The daphne shrub retains color all year long, changing to deep orange flora in the fall, and remaining green throughout the winter.

I stopped at the library on Friday to pick up a book on order. After watching Victoria on PBS, the fascinating story of her life took hold of me. I also bought a book at the library used bookstore. I’m not familiar with it, but the cover and plot description drew me in. For a couple of bucks it’s worth taking a chance on.

Dan and I had a wonderful time visiting Luke and Miranda and the kids this week. There were so many favorites things about our trip, but keeping with Friday’s Fave Five, I’ll list just five.

One

Lots and lots of snuggles with this little guy. He’s so content and so happy, and I just couldn’t get enough of kissing those cheeks and nuzzling his head.

Three

A field trip with Ivy. We rode the bus to the Children’s Museum and had the best time! I’d forgotten how much energy first graders can have, and was exhausted after keeping track of my group (only two little girls!) all day. I’m surprised there isn’t an age cap to qualify for chaperoning! 

Four

Seeing the kids in their daily routines. Here is Ivy walking home from school, which is just across the street from their house. They moved into 100-year-old house (‘new’ to them) last fall, and are thrilled with all the space!

Five

Basketball! Siefer had a tournament that we all went to, staying at a hotel for the weekend where the kids had a great time splashing in the pool. It was such fun to see her play.

Another night, we went to the school’s open gym and played a family game. Yes, even me, who hasn’t been on a court in more years than I can remember. It was such fun!

Got home on Wednesday, and I’m missing these smiling faces! Love them all so much ❤❤❤❤❤

Friday’s Fave Five is hosted by Susanne at Living to Tell the Story. It’s a time to pause and find the blessings in our week. Sometimes, it’s an opportunity to find peace in a world that is not always necessarily peaceful. That seems to be the case this week.

Joyce,  from This Side of the Pond, is the hostess for Wednesday’s Hodgepodge.

1.  As the saying goes, 'March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.' Did your March come in roaring or like some other animal? Every month carries with it certain feelings, which is why some people love and anticipate December and others dread it. How do you feel about the month of March? 

March came in like a lamb on Sunday. In fact, I spent an hour outside on the back deck, reading and sipping coffee.Chickadees, finches, flickers, goldfinches, juncos, sparrows, red-breasted nuthatches were enjoying the beautiful weather. Typically, I’m ambivalent about March. But it has been so springlike this year, that I’m enjoying it and feel a burst of energy to accomplish projects in the house. I’m also a bit leery of March, because it can turn on a dime. 

2. Where in your life are you a lion? Where are you a lamb? 

Oh, my goodness. Reading about lions and their personalities, I learn that they are fierce, decisive, assertive, confident, and protective. There have been times in my life when it seemed necessary to be the lioness. However, these days, I’m taking on the habits and lifestyle of the lamb. Stereotypically,  they are described as passive, not very smart and easily led. However, apparently research has shown that they are actually quite complex. They are social beings, but with their own personalities. What some may see as timidity, I prefer to see as observant and thoughtful. These days I am trying to be a better listener and curb my usual chatter.

3. The Hodgepodge lands on National Pound Cake day. Do you like pound cake? If so do you have a favorite flavor? Let's play this or that-

I do like pound cake. Toasted pound cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, drizzled with chocolate syrup was one of our favorite desserts growing up. 

4. What makes you feel childlike wonder right now? 

The abundance of birds that will soon be migrating through our area. Already, mountain bluebirds are here, and I love watching them flitting about in a meadow, like bits of bright blue paper catching the sun.

5. What's one thing you need to add to your wardrobe to get ready for spring? If you're in the southern hemisphere, then answer for fall? 

Sandals for trail walks and camping.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I can’t seem to read enough books these days. I finish one and I’m off to find another. I usually like to let a day or two pass before starting another, giving the last read some time to ‘steep’ and just mull it over for a while, particularly if it’s been a good read that’s taken me someplace that I’m not quite ready to leave, or I’m not ready to let the characters go. Perhaps it’s the state of the world right now, where I can’t bear to watch the news and listen to the political  heads rambling on. So, instead, I go other places, other times. Most recently the Colorado prairie in 1913. Before that, to a lovely garden in England, seeing it through the eyes of three different generations. Currently, my grandson and I are visiting a small town where a housepainter and his wife have suddenly become the guardians for a family of penguins! 

Of the cities listed how many have you seen in person? Of the cities listed which would you most like to visit this year? Any plans to do so? What's one place in America you think everyone should see? If you're not American what's one place in the US you'd like to see? 

Other than Charleston, I’ve been to all of the cities listed. I enjoyed them all, even though I’m not a huge fan of cities. Our state (Colorado, the “Centennial State”) is celebrating its 150th birthday this year, so there will be plenty of celebration here.

I’m probably biased, but my favorite place to visit is the western US, exploring the mountains and especially the prairie.

2. Three sounds you love to hear? 

My husband’s footsteps coming in the door, the sound of my children’s voices when they call instead of text, my house when it’s quiet.

3. Three sounds you hate to hear? 

Howling wind, people on phones in public places, heavy metal music.

4. February 24th is/was National Tortilla Chip Day. Are you a fan? With salsa, guacamole, queso, or just plain please? Do you like nachos? With what on top? Is there anything (besides nachos) you make that calls for tortilla chips? 

I don’t consider myself a big fan, until they are put in front of me. Then I can’t stop eating them, especially if they are warm and fresh.

5. We March into March with next week's Hodgepodge...what's one thing on your March calendar that makes you smile? 

We’ll be spending a week with our son and his family later this month! It’s been far too long, and there will be much catching up to do with Luke and Miranda and our five grands!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

We haven’t had much of a winter, however I am still longing for spring. I picked up some tulips at the grocery store yesterday. The crocus and hyacinths are already sprouting up in our yard. I imagine Old Man Winter is snoozing away in his den somewhere. I just hope he doesn’t awaken and come out with a vengeance!