How many first days of spring do we see snow? Today is the vernal equinox, and as I sit here writing snow is falling outside my window. Yesterday the snow fell softly and melted upon touching the ground. It continued to snow overnight, not melting, and I woke to see a good six to eight inches outside. It is typical here in the north to see snow on the first day of spring.

The first day of spring, or is it still winter??

I’ve lived in Vermont for over thirty years, so I am used to it. I mean, I really should be used to it. There is nothing at all surprising about snow in March – there’s nothing even surprising about snow in May here. The length of winter, the extension of winter, does kind of put a different spin on the experience of spring. Not to mention mud season, which is its own thing that challenges the bright, cheerful energy of spring’s arrival. So it is a little difficult convincing myself the equinox is very personally meaningful on a day like today. This first day of spring feels and looks a whole lot more like a day in the middle of winter!

Celebrating spring

I don’t feel a natural inclination to celebrate the equinoxes or solstices themselves, the specific days. There doesn’t seem to be exactly, I don’t know, a sense of the holy with them? I do recognize, of course, that the vernal equinox does not equate to spring blossoms or hatching eggs. And I do celebrate the seasons, so to speak, living in a way that enjoys the beauties of nature and each season. Seeing and hearing the first birds of spring, watching the wildlife become more active, and noticing the first green buds poking up through the thawing ground are all joys of the season. And spring itself is a good time for personal renewal. This past winter has left me with a bit of a cabin fever feeling. I look forward to the warmer temps, the sunnier days, the green growing things.

The sacred in nature

Life is full of cycles. I think it is only natural that we greet and appreciate them as they come, and learn and grow with each one. And I do find the sacred in nature… it is impossible for me to not enjoy with wonder all of nature’s beauty, and wonder that there isn’t something spiritual behind it all.

If you are interested in celebrating the vernal equinox or Ostara, you might enjoy reading my review of the Witches Moon Box for February, which is a collection that celebrates the transition into spring.

Thanks for reading, and as always, please don’t hesitate to reach out and say hi, or with any questions or comments. I hope you have a fabulous spring!

~ Nellie