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Thank you, Mother Nature, for ushering in spring early this year in New England, and for sparing us another harsh winter for the books.

What a difference a year makes when it comes to the changing of the seasons, especially for a mother whose children would live outside if they could. Last year at this time, we still had mountains upon mountains of snow everywhere in and around Boston, and spring almost forgot to show up. I was nine months pregnant with my second child, with an active 20-month-old eager to climb the snow banks three times the size of him and wade through the waist-deep snow in the backyard to retrieve a ball or a shovel. It was beyond challenging to ensure that we both stayed upright and above the surface of the snow throughout the entire month of March and beyond.

Jack in snow

Fast forward to this year. With two very lively little boys eager to move around outside of four walls, I couldn’t be more thankful for the beautiful weather we’ve been having so far. In early March we spent almost an entire 70-degree day outside in short sleeves, devouring the fresh air, only going inside for naps. My boys’ laughter, filling the air outside as they played, complemented the purple flowers popping out of the ground and echoed the singing of the birds that were returning.

I’m so excited for all that spring will bring.

In mid-March we opened our sandbox for the season — way ahead of schedule, we’ve taken our double wagon for its first spin around the neighborhood, and the baseball T is set up and in constant use. The snow suits are stored away, I’ve traded in my boots for flip flops, and soon — my older son is sure — the boys will be able to run around barefoot and shirtless.

With an energetic and inquisitive toddler, it’s been such a delight to observe all of nature waking up through his eyes. The days are getting longer, and everyone we meet at the playground or on the sidewalk is basking in the glory of relief that winter is over and hope that summer is just around the corner.

Yes, I know this is New England, and that very fact alone could indicate that Mother Nature is playing a joke on us this year. March came in like a lamb and did go out a bit like a lion. Snow storms have happened here in April, I’m well aware. But I’m of the belief that Mother Nature is giving all of us mothers a break this year. This beautiful weather is only going to get nicer from now until October, right?

Happy Spring!

Kate Cotter
Kate came to New England for college a decade and a half ago, and fell in love with all things Boston. She is the mom of two beautiful baby boys, ages 2.5 & 10 months, and loves watching them explore this lovely area of the country, experiencing Boston through their eyes. Heart-filling: spending time with my family, spontaneous hugs, kisses and “I love you Mommy” from my boys, reading great books, fall in New England, the Adirondacks, golden retriever puppies (don’t have any yet!), coffee, champagne, and serendipity. Can do without: Boston traffic, inconsiderateness, never-ending winters and stir-craziness.

1 COMMENT

  1. What a cute photo of your kid in the snow! It must be amazing to play in snow higher than you are tall. I too am glad for the arrival of spring and summer in Boston – that’s when all of the little critters start to become active and everything is alive again. Cheers!

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