It catches you by surprise, the first evidence of spring, snow somehow seemed part of the landscape forever, has suddenly disappeared.  The subtle change begins with mud covered back roads , splatters your car with every inch of exploration. The small blades of grass mysteriously appear, surrounded by dark rich dirt to renew your sense of smell.

Early morning best of all, a songbird sings out anticipated season change with daylight hours more available.  Where have these small creatures been concealed? How have they managed to survive the severe temperatures here only weeks ago?

Yet high on the rooftop, its lone song so sweet and clear, it brushes away the cloak of deep cold my spirit has felt at the very thought of joining nature outdoors.  The sun visits more often through the window now and warms my heart. We look to forward to wildflowers lifting their cheerful faces, and parade across the mountain heights.

Our palete across the plateau is worthy of an artists brush stokes, while the smell of spring wrap among our songbirds, to complete our spring cuisine.