March 31, 2020

       Our spring weather is surely on a roll. We have had rain, snow, sleet, hail, all interspersed with bits of sunshine. Things are greening up, and isn't March the month our minds go to the color of green? The pattern goes on. Where the snow is gone those underground flower bulbs are soaking up all this wet and pushing up for some encouraging warmth when the sun does appear. In the storms those leftover fall leaves that refused to detach from their trees are coming down, sticking to every available surface with nature's version of wet glue. Weeds are getting a head start, the bitter with the sweet.

        The returning Sandhill cranes are making their presence known. Their squawking call and gangly flight form is familiar to all who live in our valley.

         Cynthia Longhurst took some time to visit her sister and other kin in Texas. The warmth was most welcome and the group were able to take in some fun activities. We are glad she was able to return home before traveling about became rather limited with the Covid-19 efforts.

         Our eldest resident, Vernon Keller, passed away unexpectedly last week. Just the week prior he had been attending the farm auctions that take place this time of year. It has always been a favorite activity for Vernon. Now his family have been challenged in planning closure with a funeral and burial due to the current limitations from both government and ecclesiastic leaders. After private services, internment will be in the Mink Creek Cemetery, on the mountainside not far from where he has spent all of his 86 years.

         Like it or not, our home-bound scholars are missing their daily rides on our yellow school bus. Parents are working to provide not only a school replacement, but 24/7 entertainment as well. With restrictions on gathering in groups, one set of neighborhood kids decided to exchange notes and treats, back and forth, using a drop-off spot provided at each residence. Taking turns, this occupied time, created some learning moments and was supplemented with joyful anticipation.

          One family of four kids did some lip syncing to country western music favorites. It worked out to have a vocalist, drummer and guitars. Families have discovered that their backyards are great places for bird watching and identification, particularly at this time of year with so many feathered friends returning for the coming seasons.

          Last day of March. We have had a strong wind out of the south. Flags flying straight out from the flagpoles. When I write the word 'south' warmth automatically comes to mind, but not for this. The day has been cold, not frozen, but crisp. This month came in with a snowstorm, not a ferocious lion, but still not nice. It is supposed to go out like a gentle lamb. So much for that bit of ancient forecasting!