As Kelly of Lovewell Blog would say, spring is my fourth favorite season.  It just doesn’t speak to me.  Between the fluctuating temperatures, the soaring pollen counts, the crowds of cherry blossom tourists, and the weeks of juggling work, home and school responsibilities before the exhale of summer, I’m usually frazzled and over it.  There are certain consolations to the season – flowers, for instance.  And longer days, and the approach of summer.  And – of course – the fun of working my way through a list of seasonal delights (while hopped up on Allegra).  Here’s what I’m thinking this year:

• A MUST: hike the Bluebell Loop Trail at Bull Run during peak week.
• Help Peanut and Nugget hunt for eggs in the churchyard after a joyous Easter service.
• Host my mother-in-law, my parents and our dear family friends on successive weekends in April.
• Stock up on the gear that Steve and I will need for our kayaking trip to the San Juan Islands this summer.  My REI dividends just arrived and will be put to good use!
• Related: get into eco-touring shape with regular gym-going during the week and weekend paddling as soon as the boathouse opens.
• Read Wives and Daughters, by Elizabeth Gaskell.
• Clear the winter detritus off the back patio, stock up on herbs, veggies and fruit (!!!) and get my container garden started for the season.
• Get my dad’s old camera fixed and cleaned, and start shooting film.
• Listen to the new Decemberists limited edition EP, Traveling On, on my record player by an open window.
• Take a photography walk with my dSLR through my neighborhood once the blossoms are out.

So much of my spring to-do list, every year, is about shifting seasons.  Dusting off winter, preparing for summer.  But I hope that I take some time to appreciate the season and the particular glories that spring brings.  Sometimes I forget to do that, and I need to remind myself.

What is on your springtime agenda?