End of Spring

Spring 2026 is coming to a close, but it has been a season worth remembering. This year has brought a renewed passion for long-distance running, something that has affected almost every part of my life.

Nature’s growth has not disappointed, as new life and untimely deaths have swirled about the season. There was the mother opossum and her baby that were killed in the backyard, and the saga of rescuing her two live babies. I also met Jeffrey, an orphaned baby raccoon with an injured leg. Wildlife has presented itself boldly, as I’ve encountered deer, coyotes, beavers, minks, foxes, rabbits, and myriad other mammals, reptiles, and birds.

The flora was also magnificent, as it presented several waves of blossoms. First came the pears and dogwoods, then the peach, plum, and apple blossoms. After came the chinaberries, privets, honeysuckles, and now, the mimosa trees are all in full bloom.

As spring comes to a close, it’s time to focus on life lived in the heat. The summer showers will soon arrive, and I’ll have regular yard work to do. Whether I’m mowing the property, cutting fallen pines into winter firewood, or clearing the trails, it’s time to get out under the sun.

Spring brings more than work, however. Trail runs will take me out into the forests and hills, while my trusty kayak will get me on the water for fishing and photography. There’s nothing quite like working and playing hard under the sun, only to come inside the air-conditioned house, take a cool shower, and sip on an ice-cold beer. This mixture of comfort and discomfort is surprisingly pleasant.

I’m taking in the last cool, dry mornings of spring and readying myself for the summer heat. I know fall seems far away, but when you live in a place with four distinct seasons, things always change more quickly than expected. It’s best to embrace the season you’re in.