Finally, the May long weekend has arrived! Three days of rest, relaxation and time spent with family and friends.
We deserve a few days of spring celebration after what has been dubbed, “The darkest winter in 80 years” by the United States National Weather Services. In fact, Southern Ontario saw the least amount of sunshine than just about anywhere else in all of North America.
Couple this with the chilly north wind which outstayed its welcome this past spring and we all are due for a few days of warmth and sunshine.
Friday began calm with a warm breeze and a hint of sunshine. By noon folks appeared with rakes, hoes, and flats of bedding plants eager to get started on beautifying their yards. It was a productive day with happiness not witnessed in months.
Then, as if on cue, just as the workday was ending a dark ominous cloud slowly made its way over the Bay and by early evening the rainfall had begun.
We sat listening to its steady drumming commenting on the beauty of its rhythm; grateful that the dry lawns and gardens were receiving warm sustenance.
Two hours later this rain seemed less romantic and by bedtime we knew the long weekend was a bust. The weather forecast shared news of rain and lots of it for the next 24 hours.
However, it is the early dawn as I write, and the view is remarkable. A soft mist has settled in some low-lying spots and the hours of warm rain encouraged the maple leaves, stunted by the cold north wind, to fully realize their growth. There is vibrancy all around.
The maple trees have filled in making it difficult to see through to the other side and a green carpet stretches across the yard dotted with happy dandelions. The crabapple trees are in full bloom adding a celebratory brightness while the pastel shades of magnolia blossoms deepen the beauty. Perhaps this won’t be the long weekend we had hoped for, but it may just be the long weekend we need.
Whatever the weather in your part of the world, may this be a blessed time of growth, greening and renewal.
