back in the blogosphere

April has arrived and with it SPRING!! The blossoms are decorating the trees, the orange-clad public works workers are out in full force and watering the winter beaten grass, the spring/summer flowers are being plated and most importantly the blue skies have graced us with their presence. We have been enjoying some balmier temperatures, up to 20 degrees this past weekend, have said goodbye to our winter boots and thermal underwear and are counting down the days until we have a weekend getaway!

Recently we've been impressed at the amount of people packing the local park to fly kites, enjoy the greenspace and have family time. The usual sight is a set of grandparents, or two, with parents in tow, all fawning over one extremely over-dressed young toddler. The poor toddler has on enough layers to keep him safe from even the fiercest arctic winds and these layers make it cumbersome for him to even wander in the greenspace. When finally able to move, like a prisoner trying to inch along in shackles, the squirt can barely enjoy himself without being apprehended by over-zealous grandparents protecting him from any slight tumble.... what ever happened to teaching kids to wipe themselves off, brush off their hands and get up and carry-on?? This park scene is in complete contrast to the comings and goings in the local vegetable market, where five to seven ragamuffin children weave in and out of the foot-traffic like F-16's dogfighting with each other. When one of these young ones takes a tumble, the whole troupe gathers 'round to enjoy the sight of one of their own down for the count. Having realized what has happened, the floored youngster regains their footing and the chase resumes. Contrasts continue to be a daily encounter captivating our emotions and thoughts.

With the internet on the fritz, it has allowed for more time to be spent in literary works. Any suggestions or must-reads would be gladly accepted. Christina, though a lover of books, has found a new passion for needle work. As I sit and read, Christina is beside me, spotlight shining on the white grid as it awaits the squinting artist to stitch the next color of the masterpiece.