Springtime Awakening
Reconnecting with Nature in Early Spring
In the chilly days of early days of spring I can sense the forest start to wake up from its long winter nap. Last years leaf debris covers the ground and snow crunches beneath my boots.
One thing I love about being out in nature at this time of year is the opportunity to reconnect. And I find a good way to do that is to make friends with nonhumans. So when I venture out into the forest I do just that.
Greeted by the first signs of Spring, as wildflowers cheerfully emerge from the soil. They're saying, "Hey there, we made it through another winter! Did you miss us?"
The Spring Beauty.
Small, delicate, and sweet – one of the earliest risers. As it grows it will produce delicate, perfectly pink, and symmetrical petals. In fact, the first time my nieces drew pink flowers it was probably a study of the Spring Beauty. Maybe I’ll pick a few for a taste of sweetness and be back when they’re in bloom to see the canvas they create.
Beautiful Day Lilies
I’ve been going to this one specific spot for six years. In full bloom they’re normally guarded by a formidable wall of dense prickly raspberry bushes, so the only time of year I visit this spot is when the wall is safely buried under the snow. I’ll harvest a few to take home with me. They’re a delicacy this time of year. While other plants in-season can be a bit pungent, or even musty, the Day Lily has a almost celery-heart quality. Watery, crunchy, mild, sweet, and fresh. Back home I’ll ferment and eat these raw. They won’t last long so it’s a special treat I’ll savor.
Get low and close to the Earth.
Take a moment to connect with nature.
Early signs of the Dutchman's Breeches.
For now they're just tiny spouts, but soon they'll be dressed in their iconic pant-shaped flowers (like pirates pantaloons). Though it isn't edible, the beauty of a plant can be appreciated without having to interact with it in any other way.
And the Trout Lily.
Another plant that’s not great for eating, but has potent medicinal properties. When I find some I may gather a few of its leaves for their healing properties.
The forest is full of edible treasures too!
Wild Leeks
The green tops of Wild Leeks also emerge this time of year. Perfect for a quick garlicy bite. Oniony, garlicy, zingy - I cook this plant with just about anything. While I may take a few tops at this time of year it’s still a bit early. It’s best to wait and harvest the bulbs when their leaves are fully grown.
And Cutleaf Toothwart
These sprouts are always a nice treat to find at this time of year! It has a unique spicy kick! I’ll blend them up into a puree, and enjoy the spicy and delicious flavor, which sort of reminds me of freshly grated horseradish. It's hard to believe that something so humble and unassuming could pack such a punch. But I’m glad this plant grows so abundantly!
I love this time of year – it’s a time to slow down, get grounded, and take notice of everything around us. This isn't about running a marathon; it's about waking up to the world in a whole new way. The season and natural world will help shape my diet too - not necessarily through cleanses, but by waking up my body and getting myself working more efficiently.