With a nod to George Harrison, it’s been a long, cold, lonely winter. The tender shoots will be sprouting soon, but with the thick coating of snow still on the ground I fear they might have a difficult time of it. But, here comes the sun. I feel its warmth when I raise my face to the sky, it feels like years since it’s been here.

March: A Month of Renewal and Nature’s Awakening

Today is the first day of March. In the early Roman calendar, I’m talking way, way back; 700 BCE time — March (or Martius) marked the first month of the calendar year.  The vernal equinox occurred in March so it seemed like a good idea since spring marked the start of new beginnings. I myself would much rather have March mark the beginning of the new year instead of January.

Gardners know all about March. We’ve shaken off winter and are ready to line our windowsills with marigold seedlings and our coffee tables are strewn with catalogues; order forms having been submitted and necessary items on our lists; soil additives, plant food, stakes and ties, and perhaps a new bird feeder, or two.

Did you know that March is National Umbrella Month? It’s a stormy month, but with an umbrella in your hands, you’ll stay nice and dry.

Here are some other Mad-as-a-March Hatter facts:

• March 3: Opposable Thumbs Day for Cats and Dogs
• March 11: International Fanny Pack Day
• March 13: National Ear Muff Day
• March 16: National Panda Day
• March 18: Send an email to Trump telling him to take a long walk off a short pier Day
• March 23: World Meteorological Day
• March 31: World Backup Day

Slipped one in without you even knowing it. Ha!

The Worm Moon is March’s full moon and this month there’ll be a total lunar eclipse, giving the moon its red coloring, making it a blood moon. The celestial event occurs on March 13. It’s been three years since we’ve had a total lunar eclipse, so get outside and make a wish.

According to Henry David Thoreau, Bluebirds were a sign that winter was waning.

Their soft warble “melts in the ear, as the snow is melting in the valley around.” Henry David Thoreau, Journals–March 2, 1859

March is the perfect month to make sure your nest boxes are clean and ready for springtime occupants.

Speaking of nest boxes — I bought myself a Birdfy Nest Box. (Yes, I should be saving my money but my anxiety level is quite high thanks to He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named and his sidekick.)

Any-hoooo, I spent a chunk of money and now I’m the proud owner of a nest-box-cam, or cam-nest-box.

I wonder if I can deduct the cost on my taxes as a medical expense? Trump Anxiety Disorder is real. Honest.

Okay, enough politics. Let’s get back to the sun. Hit it, George.

Blessed be :}

Mi manchi, mia amata immortale.