Spring is one of my favorite times of the year. I like all seasons, but the celebration of new life is just so special. The problem I have with the northern spring though is that it feels more like a second winter, not spring.
Frost almost every night till late May, snow every now and then, overcast and windy – this is exactly how winter is in most parts of Europe. It might be even a little milder there. Sure, it is NOT like a real Canadian winter. So I just call it the second winter.
But wait, there are signs of spring, and I want to point them out so it feels more like spring to me, too.
Longer daylight
Every day there is about 4 minutes more daylight than the day before. We already have 12.14 hours between sunrise and sunset. That is 4 hours more than in December. Days are brighter, lighter, and noticeably longer.
Spring snow-rain
We might actually get more snow in the spring than we do in the winter, so it is kind of a sign of spring too ;). The spring snow is different than the winter snow; it is heavy and sticky. I have to admit that it looks very pretty.
As spring progresses, the snow turns to rain. It is always so special to hear the first raindrops.
Birds are back
To see the first robin in our area is a real treat. Also, geese and swans are coming along with many other birds. It is so nice to see and hear them again.
Lakes and rivers are defrosting
Where there was solid ice just a few weeks ago there is now water flowing and birds are bathing.
Buds appear on trees
Trees are putting forth buds and they are just showing now. It is so fun to tromp with a friend through the Spring snow after some pussy willows.
Perennials are coming up
Even though it still seems so cold, perennials are popping out of the ground everywhere. It is so nice to see them, the bright, fresh green. It might take a while but there will be flowers again.
Spring is here after all! It is just different here than it is in many parts of the world. It is a northern spring, a spring that people here long for so much. And maybe the little things here are more appreciated.
So long as the earth exists, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.” Genesis 8:22
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Your pictures are beautiful! I really enjoyed reading about spring in your colder climate.
It’s now nearing 70 each day here in the south. The flower bulbs I planted in the fall are up and will be flowering soon.
70 and flowers sound so good right now. But we will get there too, eventual! Enjoy spring, Alli!
I love hearing about the climate and culture in other places. And I concur your photos are gorgeous. Your blub flowers are taller than mine.
Thank you Amanda! Those blub flowers are from April 19. Right now everything is covered in snow. But I have seen some perennials this year already too. So I am glad snow covered them before it got so cold again.
I know you’re so happy for Spring! And what beautiful pictures! The only other thing I have to say is that, since you like birds so much and I’m terrified of them, I’m gonna send you all of the Spring birds that are here at my house. Don’t try and stop me. I share because I care. LOL
We would love your birds! thank you for being so thoughtful 😉
I love your description of the northern spring. I never knew what it was like in northern states climate wise. Your pictures are beautiful, especially the snow covered branches. Although we are still having some cool nights, in the 30’s, the days are getting up to the low 70’s sometimes. I love Spring with the exception of the pollen!
Yes, the north is beautiful, any time of the year.
Wow….Love all the photos, Ana! I know spring is approaching here because I saw all the snow melted when we returned from home yesterday. Still chilly though. Are you a Canadian who now lives in Europe?
Good for you! No, we lived in Europe for many years, so Canadian winters (and even more springs) are still a bit cold for my liking.
Ahhh Spring!! Love all of the flowers coming out & the birds that come back. In our neck of the woods, Spring means the fog rolls in. They call it May Gray – lol. But I’m looking forward to getting out of Winter 😉
Me too, I would not mind to see some more green.
I live in a valley on the western Wyoming and eastern Idaho border, but I’m from Missouri. Gardening here is a whole new ballgame; so glad to find your site. I have a south-facing deck along the side of my log home. I do mostly flowers, but would like a few veggies too. Just received my gardening bags and will use your soil mixture. Soil here is terrible and rocky. Watering not a problem since I’m retired and home most of the time. Think I will try some compost tea this year. Will be watching your site on FB and email.
Growing flowers and veggies/greens together is a great way to have beauty and food at the same place. Happy growing!