Spring forth with much anticipation!

Hints of color dotting the earth
when the flowers arise from long naps
to stretch and squint in the sunshine,
teasing the senses with subtle perfumes.

Songbirds return in great abundance
to revel in discoveries
revealed by melting snows.

Woodsmoke replaced by cooking smells
as venturous housemavens
allow in the fresh air.

Animals frolic
in sunlight and new grass:
Horses and dogs roll to quell itch,
arising with green bits
and bruised flower petals;
sweetly comical, happy beasts.

New warmth
replaces old cold in my bones:
Again I know the vigor
and wonder of youth.

Seeing the whole world reborn
—still glistening,
the cycle renewed,
the return of hope-full life.