Heralds of Spring

What are your heralds of spring that encourage your thoughts to wander out of the cold snow and ice of winter to the wonders of spring's beginning.  Does it occur in early February when Wiarton Willy or Puxitoni Phil start to emerge from their winter slumber claiming to hold the secret to springs arrival.  Or, perhaps you anxiously await the sighting of the first Robin to enforce the idea that winter is finally coming to an end. Another favourite amongst gardeners is the start of Canada Blooms where we can escape into lush gardens overflowing with tulips, rhododendrons, and flowering crabapples in order to once again enjoy the lush colours of spring.  Whatever your herald of spring is  I have a new one that is as accurate at the Farmers Almanac.  Spring has truly arrived and winter is finally over when Odus, our 200 lb pot bellied pig emerges from hibernation and wanders outside the barn.  This miraculous event happened for the first time this year on March 3.  Now I have become more aware of the Golden Chain Tree whose buds are showing signs of agreement with Odus, and the daffodil bulbs that are awakening from their slumber.  We can all rejoice, spring is close and soon the Garden Center will be overflowing with wonderful plants and the greenhouse will be filled with colour.  Thankyou Odus.

What are your Heralds of Spring?