Is it Spring or Winter?

I have been asking myself this question lately as I see signs of spring all around me here where we live in Ohio. I am confused. Some days have been warm (up to the low 60s), and some days are still blistery cold (like today). But, I mainly ask, because my Iris’ decided to come up already. Are they confused too, I wonder?

Looking ahead to spring, for me, means freedom to be outside more and yes, the ability to do more projects…outside! Here’s a current look around my rented property (but I treat it like my own), and some words I have to share with my landscape:

 You are so awesome, brick!  Where did you come from, I wonder? You must have quite a story to tell! I can’t wait for you to come out of hiding and be displayed for all to see!

Stairs: you will have something to look forward to….I’m thinking potted plants & flowers would look good ascending your stairs!

 And tall grass:  you will be coming up and being replaced with a beautifully flowered bed instead for you to make grow.

I love you, brick porch. I can’t wait to see you accented with some ferns and ledge flower boxes to welcome spring with pops of rich color!

I will wash you, vinyl siding. You have lasted up under some harsh weather, and I’m thankful for your protection.

Front porch: I love your expanse. I will bring in a comfortable bench, a sitting chair, a rug, and a plant stand. And then color will pour in from freshly hung and planted flowers! And in time, people will want to come linger in your space, and drink their morning coffee!

Front Porch Ceiling: your paint is still good, but you need a new light. One to say welcome, and brighten everyone’s way. Maybe a globe or a lantern will do?

Front yard: you are my “curb appeal.” But, don’t worry, little bushes, you still fit in with the rest of the neighborhood : ). I will give you friends and flowers and fresh mulch soon!

And willow tree: I will be very sad to let you go, but your beauty and life have faded away.

And mystery grass: it is now your time to leave too.

Lamb’s Ear: I don’t know where you came from, but I’d love you to stay. I will carefully uproot you and plant you in a new home to stay for awhile.

Backyard: You are so plain. But, I’m thankful to have you! Soon you will be home to a vertical garden and a sweet young boy to come play with you!

And side yard: I have big plans for you too! There will be vines on your trellises, and a french bistro and twinkle lights to make for a romantic evening outside.

Shed & Fence: I know you aren’t pretty, but you’ve come a long way from where you’ve been.

And yard: just be patient. Changes are coming.

Wild Weed: I will miss your fragrant flowers and white buds, but you don’t really belong there. It’s been a love/hate relationship, at best, but we must separate.

So, landscape, I write you these words to say, spring IS coming, and I won’t tarry long at paying more attention to you. Your owner has taken amiable care of you, but now it is my turn and pleasure to make you even better than you ever thought you could be. I am so excited to care for you and to make you beautiful again! Thank you for being patient with me, while I’ve worked on getting the inside just the way I want it. We all know that the heart is the most important thing to work on, and to have reflect it’s Maker. What’s on the outside is just the polish.

So, till we can be together again soon,

Joy