Rites of spring

Yesterday I saw two sure fire signs that spring is upon us…

First, the fern tree is unrolling its new leaves. I think the whole fiddlehead shape is very beautiful, although these aren’t so pretty up close, all covered with fuzzy hairs that sort of look like an infestation of creepy-crawlies. I really am happy we have this tree… they’re not rare or anything but they’re definitely one of the things that reminds me we’re not in Kansas anymore.

And second, up go the town’s Christmas decorations. Another thing I find beautiful but is a bit grubby up close. Without the bulwark of Thanksgiving, there’s nothing but Halloween to stop the spread of Christmas. And so, while the kids were still suffering their post-trick-or-treat tummy aches, the downtown committee hauled out the garlands and the ladders and got to work.