Column
Welcome Spring
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With the onset of spring in the Northern Hemisphere, animals that hibernate are waking up from a long-period of deep sleep. They spent the winter hibernating to conserve energy while food was scarce. Animals that hibernate include bats, black bears, Arctic ground squirrels, and common poorwill birds. Many other species such as raccoons and skunks go into a state of torpor during the cold weather, which is a type of light hibernation. Most hibernators wake up during the month of March. Many of us will recognize ourselves in this group. Our torpor has lasted about a year with a few tiny little moments where we ran out briefly to see the sun. March is the month when Spring arrives, it feels as if we are finally waking from a long sleep. Covid-19 vaccinations are starting to happen, and no matter where you are on that conveyor belt, you know you are eventually going to get to the front of the line. This is a slow painful awakening, but it is happening … and not a moment too soon, because we are hungry! We’re eager to dine out, shop, walk, eat, drink and enjoy ourselves. When the sun comes out, so do we. You can see it on First Street when the sidewalks are full and there’s no place to park. This is a good thing! Our shops and restaurants have been in crisis for months and it will take a long while before they are back to normal, so let’s give them all the support we can. Along with hibernating animals, the earth is also waking up. I know I’m not the only one who’s looking forward to working in their yard and imagining a gorgeous garden full of healthy flowers, plants and vegetables. I’m a hit and miss gardener with one green thumb and one pathetic shriveled up black thumb. I have great intentions and a very good eye but that weeding and watering thing … well, as I said, hit and miss. Fortunately in this issue I have plenty of information to help gardeners of all levels create their dream garden. And finally, March contains a holiday near and dear to my heart, St. Patrick’s Day. On March 17th I’ll be making my way to Cullen’s Tannery Irish Pub & Saloon for a taoscán of uisce beatha or a wee dram o’ the Irish.
Sláinte!
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Mary Hand Tweet, post or send your suggestions & ideas to: Editor@beniciamagazine.com Beniciamagazine.com 8 • Benicia Magazine
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