Tale of two springs

I took Nova out to feed the horses the evening before I left. The smell of wood smoke, chicken coop, thawing piles of frozen manure in the light rain--spring has sprung in the Valley. I sat there waiting while she did the chores, and that particular aroma took me back to the childhood dairy farm. (Although horses smell much better than cows!)

The drive back to Seattle was as good as it gets. Sunny skies, bone dry roads and light traffic in shoulder season. But it takes a generous heart to love the Valley in March. When we return sometime in April, all the dirty snow should be gone and life about to make an abrupt change to summer. The seasonal transitions don't linger over there.

In Seattle, a different seasonal story. There were a few warm days while I was gone and the cherry trees finally started blooming. A pretty and welcoming sight as I drove the last few blocks. No hyacinths or tulips yet in our garden, but hopefully just in time for Easter.

John bought a ham slice and some salad for dinner which was nice, because I didn't have to stop at the grocery store-- an awful chore after a long drive. Also a big baked potato, topped with delicious fresh chives from the pot. 

No lazing around this morning, I'm working at the Cafe. Back to Seattle realities.