Spring has sprung in the D.C. area. We embraced the elegant beauty of the cherry blossoms and prepare for the yellow haze of pollen. It is a time of renewal, growing daylight and stripping off layers for the afternoon run in preparation for the beach. Come on abs; make an appearance like the cherry blossoms, even if it is only long enough for an Instagram pic. But, isn't this transition a bit more than warmer weather? Each season is a gift with special qualities. Granted, it is different in the Arizona desert, California redwoods or Maine mountains, but part of living is observing our surroundings and appreciating the days we live and the beauty around us. During the Spring, a stretch of Canal Road near Georgetown has abundant wisteria blooms cascading over themselves promising a sweet perfume reward to those rushing home in the springtime warmth. Each day is filled with beauty and easier to notice as the trees transition from brown dormancy to bright green life. Let's use this easy transition to practice noticing our surroundings so we can do the same thing in the bitter cold of Winter.

What are your family traditions when Spring arrives? What is a favorite springtime memory? How is Spring different between the places you have lived? What does gratitude for the season look like to you? What is your biggest challenge with Spring? What comes to mind when you think of Spring? What hopes do you have with the arrival of Spring?