Full.

Full. That's how I'd describe our days as of late, as we rush headlong into summer with every waking moment spent outside playing and exploring and planting and eating and, well, just living. I have to admit, as much as I love the still quiet world of winter, I am humbled by the bursting energy of spring. It makes me realize (again and again) how fantastic our little nook in this world really is....

My top five reasons for loving Up North (today).

The fact that my children are being raised in a place where identifying birds is a sought-after daily activity. We use this basket (which rotates each season to reflect whatever we're focusing on) to serve as a gathering place for binoculars, field guides, etc. Keeping it handy in the kitchen welcomes "grab and go" adventures.


Twenty steps from my back porch, wild leeks aplenty are waiting to be pulled. Early in May, I cut their leaves and saute them as I would spinach or kale... Simply fantastic in taste and there is something entirely magical about returning (even just a little bit) to the foraging roots of the past.


Everyday, something new appears. I catch myself holding my breath when I step outside each morning, waiting to see, waiting to see.

We are treated to the most spectacular, free-from-work garden shows.


And then, there's this. The discovery of green grass and slides, "chuck it" dog tossing and rolling around in the dirt. For the first time, through a toddler's eyes.

Our days are full. Full indeed.