First day of spring to you

Hello! Well, there is more mud around camp now, that's for sure. When driving up the driveway you really had to take a run at a while back - felt like it was snow you were trying to drive through, how thick it was.
The birds have been back for weeks now with their quick movement activity and seed gathering accompanied by their beautiful and varied song. We have two honking geese that have returned as well. I've seen deer tracks but not who they belong to yet. A silent soaring hawk went overhead on my walk yesterday. Oh, and squirrels have been climbing the post near our bird feeder. I half expected them to jump onto it like my Mom's squirrels in Abbotsford do, but they haven't - just looking and enjoying the fallen seed on the ground.
Here is a family shot - Cara, Sarah and Andy - on a Sun. family walk. I call this our 'Everest' shot. It really was quite warm, but Sarah wanted to where her balaclava.
The other day we helped Andy 'pick rocks' out front of the office. That was fun. Sarah picking up 'Sarah-sized rocks' as well. The rocks come out with the tractor really easy right now because the ground is so moist and soft.
We've been having great weather. Sunny mainly, some overcast days but it's still been cool. We hope the snow melts melts melts before the work day in a month.
Next week is the Fundraising dinner in Whiterock. Looking forward to that.
Ski season (cross country, which I had been doing) is definately over. It seemed to sneak up on me, but that's ok. I am now excited about spring and Andy is really excited to get gardening. We have a plot out by the barn he started last fall. Now, on his time off, he is installing a deer fence. I joked with him that if we have way too much produce for our family that we can set up a stand to sell some on the days when campers come and go. Watch for that :)
Yah, with the melting snow and camp 'things' (campfire ring, buildings) becoming more visable I am drawn to think of the summer. I am really getting excited about staff and campers coming. It will be a huge change of pace for us and I am already praying regarding that.
Walked by the 'cabin' where the LITers (leaders in training) stayed last summer and was reminded of them and how they'd hang around their little dwelling - swim towels drying out on the line along the cabin wall and flip flops and shoes piled outside the door.
Also walked on the road to the beach today and could look right through the trees to the outdoor chapel - snow in between the benches still. All is laid bare. In the summer the foliage is thick and you can't see the chapel. God, lay bare our hearts and motives and concerns. Help us bring them to you, who sustains us, equips us, and delights in us.