The return of open windows is one of the gifts of spring. As the kittens enjoyed the fresh air, I followed their gaze into the backyard.

While they watched for birds and squirrels, my eyes caught sight of green!

I rushed outside to free the sprouting bulbs from their protective winter covering of leaves and chicken wire.

Oh, the joy of discovery!

I love this tender stage of the garden – the sweet shapes, the fresh colours.

As if that wasn’t joy enough, the sun came out just as I freed these new shoots.

That is the magic of the garden. As  I clear the way and discover new life, I feel close to myself, to the Earth and to my mom.

From a distance, it looks like a big mess and a patch of dirt.

But when you look closely, there is beauty to be found.