Sensations of Spring

The wind sweeps up the valley floor

And brings with it the smell of spring

The scent of grasses, flowers and life

That signal Earth’s awakening

A rich aroma fills the air

And rides the breeze that rises high

To reach the hilltop where I sit

My sanctuary in the sky

The valley stretches far below

Green velvet laced with dancing streams

Here and there lie newborn calves

Curled near their mothers, lost in dreams

Bright meadowlarks sing long and clear

While swallows swoop and dive and sail

And chase cloud shadows 'cross the fields

As they race over hill and dale

Alone, I sit and contemplate

The beauty of God's offering

The gifts that He so freely gives

The sights and sounds and smells of spring

By:  Jerry Richards

This beautiful poem was written by a good friend who owns a cattle farm not far from the small town where I grew up.  I wish I had the perfect photo of the farm as he describes it here.  However, as I read his words, I am also taken back to my grandparent's farm where I spent much time also experiencing some of these sights and sounds.  The photo of the barn here was my playground many a Sunday afternoon.  

A couple of summers ago, I had the privilege of visiting Jerry and his wife, Carla at their farm.  I was mesmerized by the familiar country surroundings as we rode in a little 4-wheeler across the very green velvet fields he describes above.   What a joy it was to be in their company surrounded by sheer country charm and beauty.  I will ever have a soft spot for life in its God-designed palette.  There is no sweeter music than that of "spring peepers" in tune with a squeaky back porch rocking chair, on a cool star-studded evening.  Thanks for keeping it alive, Jerry & Carla!