Spring Has Sprung

It’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day minutia of modern life – politics, pandemic, war. It’s like a never-ending train wreck; so hard to look away from each breaking story and impossible to see a positive outcome. This month, I am trying my best to focus on what is important and pushing off my shoulders the unsavory influences. These collective burdens are not mine to absorb nor mine to pass on to others. Rather than being consumed by dread and fear like some people are doing, I have set my sights on calm and hope. I really need to believe that our lives will get better this year and spring renewal affirms for me that chance.

Spring has always been somewhat magical for me. In the Crescenta Valley, the change of seasons is subtle but definitely noticeable. If we are lucky enough to have a rainy winter, when spring begins to flourish it is spectacular. The warm sun, the clear blue sky and the white clouds usher in the most vibrant colors and sounds of nature. I thrill when the daffodils and iris emerge. I smile at the birds twittering in the birdbath. I inhale the scents of jasmine and freesia. I feel the cool grass under my bare feet. The simplistic beauty of it all helps me work through the problems of the day.

Most people can appreciate the earthly delights of spring right in their own yard but, if that is lacking, the Crescenta Valley and surrounding communities have a wide range of options to help you find your happy place. Take a walk in your neighborhood. Head for the hills. Enjoy one of our many parks. Visit Descanso Gardens. There is so much to experience right here where we live. We are so blessed to have beauty on such a large scale, just beyond our own backyards.

On March 19, right before the vernal equinox and official declaration of spring, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of the Stone Barn Nature Center at Deukmejian Wilderness Park. It filled my heart with joy to see so many neighbors checking out the Barn, being inspired by the colorful mosaic mural and visiting the many community booths. The best part of all was seeing the faces of the community folks that I have come to know and love. Their smiles and laughter were truly contagious and, in a flood of emotion, I realized how much I had missed the personal interactions with these people. It was a special treat to be a part of this momentous occasion against the backdrop of our amazing mountains and gorgeous views.

Further motivation to get outdoors could come in the form of two upcoming community events on April 30. CV’s 16^th Annual Hometown Country Fair will be held at Crescenta Valley Regional Park at 3901 Dunsmore Ave. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This old-fashioned town gathering will feature a variety of activities like a classic car show, rides, petting zoo, pie-eating contest, dog parade, entertainment, food trucks, booths and much more. Additional information can be found at CrescentaValleyChamber.org.

Also on the same day, Friends of Rockhaven will sponsor, “Art on the Rocks.” This women’s arts & crafts fair will feature the work of local artists and crafters. It will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Luke’s of the Mountains Church at 2563 Foothill Blvd. in La Crescenta. More information can be obtained by writing to friendsofrockhaven@gmail.com.

Come support these fun community events and see your neighbors outside again. I guarantee the fresh spring air and abundant smiles will do you a world of good. I, for one, am looking forward to it.

Susan Bolan
susanbolan710@gmail.com