The slide towards Spring

The period of Winter has always been a challenge for me. I am very attuned to sunlight, with my emotional lightness tied to its rays. During winter, less daylight and cloudy days can make me feel heavy, like time has become slowed and drawn out. I find myself longing for Spring and the return of more sunlight. As someone raised in New England and living in the northern climes of Vermont for the past 23 years I’ve struggled with embracing this monotone time of year. 

Animal prints in the snow

This year, rather than fight the disdain I have for the dark and cold months, I’ve been working to cultivate an acceptance. To lean into the retreat of the light. I’ve been learning more about the Wheel of the Year and Celtic Pagan traditions in an effort to nurture a more spiritual understanding of the seasons. Focusing on nature and the passage of time has actually allowed me to be more present in the moment. To slow down and remain in the now, rather than the past or future which I previously spent much of my focus on. It’s helped me understand that one of the greatest constants is the continuation of time. That no matter how much we may want to slow it down, speed it up, or hit pause, time will always pass. The sun will still rise and set. The moon will wax and wane. The cycle of life, death, and renewal will continue to turn. 

Tulips from Fern Ridge Farm help brighten the day. And yes, even flower farmers buy flowers.

Yesterday we passed through Imbolc, the third sabbat in the Wheel of the Year and a celebration of the tipping of winter towards spring. A recognition that, while hard to discern, nature is stirring around us. Even with a foot of snow on the ground and morning temps at -6 there are still signs to be seen. It’s in the birdsong I hear during morning chores, the melting of snow on the woodpiles, the warmth of the sun on windburned cheeks, the lengthening shadows in the afternoon, and the minute or two of daylight we gain each day. And with it, I too find myself stirring. Moving slowly from the pastimes that have kept me indoors - the hours spent in front of my computer organizing the upcoming farming season and the knitting, sewing, and reading that have occupied my time. This week I will plant the first seeds for our flower farm and with it, the slide towards spring has begun.

The goats enjoying some moments in the afternoon sun.