A Pretty Busy Spring

May knocks on summer's door loudly but with hesitation.  The yard unabashedly revels in a bright new wardrobe, puffing pink, white and red plumage as conceitedly as the birds pausing on the fence amid frenzied courting rituals. The dogwoods and red buds, fully leafed out, offer canopies of shade that filter the impact of the hardworking sun's rays as it cajoles the well-rested earth back to life.

  

Soft, small bursts of delight drift from the park into the open windows of the house along with the occasional steady beat of a tennis match in the court across the street.  Unlike the busy activity of summer, the park's tempered buzz reflects the more scheduled days of spring.

And while conversation often turns  toward the desire-laden, suggestive talk of summer, my attention remains focused on the spring calendar.  My pen still hovers near the top of the to-do list.  Elementary school drama production (all 4 performances). Check. Final Claxton showcase. Check. Middle school chorus concert. Check. The piano recital will soon follow along with two end-of-the-season soccer tournaments. Rem will receive his Kindermusik certificate while Pomp and Circumstance plays in the background.  The fourth grade trip, soccer tryouts, fall commitments and registrations will complete the list and then on to the blissful, carefree days of summer.

The pictures from top to bottom: Tam relaxing at the office door; the backyard in bloom; Lise in her school production; Miren celebrating spring at the Maddix's bed and breakfast; Rem in the backyard; Rem smelling backyard flowers