Spring on the prairies of Alberta is a long-awaited season that emerges after a seemingly endless cold winter.  As the snows melt, all that is stark and bare comes to life again, bringing with it a feeling of hope and promise.  Because the winters are so long, spring is more pronounced in the prairies. The sharp cold of winter is replaced by warm breezes and sweet rains.  The earth begins to smell green again and the sound of birds chirping merrily in the trees awakens us in the mornings.  On these first spring days, even the animals can feel the change in the air and you can see them leap and play in the fields.  It is a time of joy that calms the weary heart and whispers of hope and new life.

Hints of Spring
By Krista Longeway

I know I feel spring in the air this morn
As winter melts away in the warm sun
Whenever the new calves and lambs are born
Even the animals will leap and run

The birds are all chirping without a care
Gladly announcing a time of rebirth
Snowdrops and daffodils wave in the air
As they emerge out of the cold damp earth

I hear the pattering of the spring rain
As it splashes in puddles on the ground
Turning the whole world to green once again
As sun gently warms the earth all around

Cherry blossoms form in countless number
Gracefully adorning branches on trees
Awakening from long winter’s slumber
As fragrant pink petals float in the breeze

The first hints of spring are a welcome sight
As sun touches down like a gentle kiss
Bringing a new year of growth and delight
And renewed feelings of hope and promise