Think spring and most people assume it's time to replant the garden, freshen up the house, add a pop of color to one's wardrobe and socialize with friends after an extremely long, cold winter.  Like most people, I am doing all of these things and truly delighted to be outdoors in the midst of all the blossoms.  The birds are darting with renewed vigor and purpose, keeping me company as I settle the new plants into their fresh beds while feathered friends serenade me.  I don't think I've seen such an array of birds on our property before so I know it's a good sign our woods are a  healthy habitat for them.

Instead of spending this morning at the computer I took a little detour to savor some quiet time down by the meadows near a local river.  As the early sun gleamed through new leaves, I wandered through mounds of daffodils and hyacinths.  The endless "to do" list could wait a little longer because it seems the blooms are passing too quickly.  This has been an incredibly hectic month so a little solitude between sessions was most welcome.

Spring heralds the beginning of many major fund-raising events and I am pleased to report the "Fine Art & Flowers" at the Wadsworth went well.  I had some lovely feedback for my slideshow that screened throughout the 3 day event and I also enjoyed a delightful Italian style 4 course dinner in the Avery Court near the fountain surrounded by stunning art and listening to Madama Butterfly performed by members of the CT Lyric Opera.  After months of work by the Museum and the Women's Committee, it was good to enjoy all the artistry that makes it a calendar favorite.  I am sharing a little slideshow of the evening.

That same weekend I was a participant at a Writers' Weekend at The Mark Twain House and Museum, a series of workshops that exceeded all expectations.  The experienced authors were generous in spirit as they shared their insights and encouraged us to pursue our projects.  I shared 2 specific projects and was heartened to take them to the next level based on the interested response.  Who knows how these projects may develop?

On Friday my "Guarding Tradition" photos that had hung at The Bushnell Theater in Hartford for Jan-Feb to coincide with the dramatic play "War Horse" were installed at the Avon Library for an "Encore" exhibition for 6 weeks.  If you missed these large black & white portraits of the 1st Company Governor's Horse Guards, you can see them until Friday 13th June when they "retire from active service".  There will be a new show in the Fall with some accompanying programs to share the history of this unique cavalry unit.

Looking ahead this month there are 2 major events at Hill-Stead, the May Market on 9th & 10th (this Friday and Sat) then the major Dinner Auction event on Thursday May 22.  I hope you can attend in person to enjoy a true treasure in this Farmington Valley (recently voted one of the top 20 destinations in New England).  Just in case you can't attend, I look forward to sharing some of those photos soon so you can see why spring is so special in this part of the world.