It feels like spring is arriving late to the party this year.

We’ve had so many mixed signals.  The cold has lingered, as if it never wants to leave, creating a vanishing act for a few days and then coming back with a vengeance bringing chills and freezing our ears and bones.

But at the same time I look at my fruit trees and see new leafy buds greeting the world, quiet reminders of the sweet treats that will arrive in a few months.

There is so much to be done but first I must clear out all traces of winter from the garden.

Winter always gives me a reason to slow the pace, allowing me to admire the white landscape, nestle by the fireplace enjoying books and warm teas, dreaming of faraway places and journeys yet to come. But I also love hiking in the mountains, taking in the silent atmosphere and breathing in the fresh cold air.

I wander through the garden, quietly taking in the damage. In this corner of  Upper Austria it is not only the force of storms that leaves its mark but also the heavy snow that can cause broken branches and other natural debris that must be cleared.

I reach the pond, which, after remaining still under a glassy cover all winter, is now slowly showing signs of new life. Fish and insects are busy once again, awakened from their dormant winter state, ready to explore.

Next to it, after lying in secret beneath the snowy winter layers and receiving a bit of sun and warmth,  the first tulips stand now proudly waiting for spring to settle in.

Further along, new blooms gather together as if waiting for warmer days.

While others still sheltered, look out for the missing sun.

The garden awaits my care but I stop for a moment to hear the birdsongs all around me. It sound festive, there are also new babies learning how to fly. Some are still hesitant and rather clumsy, but soon enough they’ll discover that practice makes perfect.

I put on my gardening gloves and breathe in the fresh air. It is time …