Every year during those long, dark days of January or February I walk around my backyard and observe the damage and neglect of the planting areas. And then at some point I always look above the fences and see the mature trees (mostly city variety) that are bare and rather sad in appearance. I tell myself that I should remember the date because in just a few weeks these bare limbs will have sprouted green. I like to call this a “Spring Explosion.”

Yes, I realize that this past year has been, to put it mildly, a little out of the ordinary in many aspects. We have been for good reason a little pre-occupied with international, national, and of course local news. Besides concern for family, health, job security, and having enough toilet paper to “weather this current storm,” many in our population are witnessing the unbelievable: changes in spring training, changes in hockey games, changes in a favorite high school sport activity, and of course the massive changes in men's and women's NCAA basketball tournament. Which for many years has been monikered as “MARCH MADNESS.”

Now, I have no cure for what has been or not been occurring in the world of high school, college and of course professional sports, but let me suggest you check one of my favorite times of the year, SPRING, the original “MARCH MADNESS!” If you venture out of your four walls right now and look around, you will see that once again nature has begun her miracle. Spring is an actual time of year in the solar calendar. This calendar also includes summer, winter, and autumn. It has nothing to do with changing from standard time to daylight savings time. That is a man-made (and fodder for another essay) invention.

Seasons and the changes that appear have been celebrated for as long as our ancestors have wandered the earth. These people recognized that at certain times of the year the sun (our natural day/night clock) would appear at certain locations. Today most of us only know these important life and light changing dates because of our calendars or that perky news anchor announces that the season change is coming. Well, it occurred recently. We went from winter to spring. Did you see it?

But going back to your surroundings, look at the trees. The bare branches are now covered with bright green buds or actual green leaves. If you were able to share with others at least one person in the group would complain about the pollen. It is visible on the car when you park in some areas, on the sidewalks, and in  the gutter in front of your home. Spring is a constant and dependable in this time of uncertainty.

Perhaps you might think about walking in your neighborhood. Many of us have been relegated to stay in one location, but still allowed to roam the streets using “social distancing.” Notice the yards with flowers that are blooming. The magnolia tree in my front garden bloomed a few weeks ago and the huge purple and white blossoms have dropped replaced by foliage. That is a miracle to me. I was pacing near my home (not a big fan of this stay place business) and saw irises, lilac, evergreen pear all in magnificent colors that only can be found in nature.

The more social/athletic activities that are curtailed the more we need to find replacements. No, nothing will replace some of the spring traditions that we know and love, but perhaps it would be a good time to explore other outlets. This might be an excellent opportunity to get involved with your outside surroundings. Look around, take time to think about where you are and what you see, and share your insights and discoveries with others in your group. Nature just beyond your front door is impressive.

And if you have questions about plants in your neighborhood or seeds you wish plant the Master Gardeners of Stanislaus County are here to assist. We can be reached by phone or email and it is a free, non-judgmental service. Join us in celebrating the return of spring. Right now, we all need something to celebrate after our long, often difficult past year.

The UCCE Master Gardener's answer the Help Line Wednesdays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Other days and times, leave a message and we will return your call within two business days. (209) 525-6802. Or, fill out our survey to be contacted by email: http://ucanr.edu/ask/ucmgstanislaus

Note: these services are available for Stanislaus residents only. For other California counties, visit our map at http://mg.ucanr.edu/FindUs/ to find your local program.