It was one of those March days when the sun shines hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in the light, and winter in the shade. ~Charles Dickens

That certainly is true here in the Midwest, where this year’s first spring day is warm an inviting through the window, and brisk 36 degrees, with a 30-degree wind chill. Brrrrrrr!

The transition of the seasons is a great topic for writing and developing observation and description skills. You might have everyone write in their journal describing what the trees, grass, flowerbeds and yard look like today. If you are in the mood and time allows, head outdoors for a walk around. What does the ground feel like? What smells are in the air? What animals do you see? You might also record how you are all feeling during the spring thaw. DOes this cloudy day put you in a glum mood? How does spring revive us and make us feel hopeful?

For the next six weeks, repeat this exercise, observing the growth and change that occur this time of year.

One of my favorite quotes to apply to writing comes from the painter Georgia O’Keeffe who said, “It takes a long time to see a flower.” The more we look, the more we notice. Take a long time to see Spring as it unfolds…before you know it, it will be summer!