Flowers in February

"When words cannot provide the solace we need or express the joy we feel, when it is simply futile to attempt to explain that which is unexplainable, when logic and reason cannot yield adequate understanding about the injustices and inequities of life, when mortal experience and evaluation are insufficient to produce a desired outcome, and when it seems that perhaps we are so totally alone, truly we are blessed by the tender mercies of the Lord and made mighty even unto the power of deliverance (see 1 Nephi 1:20)." -- Elder David A. Bednar

Unlike my friends and loved ones in Utah who are digging out from inches of fresh snow this week, we have been enjoying beautiful, warm, and even sunny weather in Oregon. The past couple days Eliot and I have even made it out on some long walks together ... without the burdensome hats, gloves and heavy jackets. The fresh air and sunshine have been just what I've needed.

There is Spring in the air. Every now and then on our walks I'll catch the sweet scent of hyacinths, my favorite Spring flower. Even if I can't visibly see where the scent is coming from (which has been the case more than once), it's such a comfort to have that fresh fragrance pushing out the stale winter air and indicating a return of life and color and warmth. And I've been delighted to discover crocuses pushing their way up through the ground, along with some ambitious tulips and daffodils. There are even small buds of pink on some of the trees and bushes, and I can't wait until they're in full bloom.

One of the things I love most about Oregon is that Spring comes early. One day last winter, as I was talking with a woman in my ward about how beautiful Oregon is, she told me, somewhat excitedly and with a hint of pride, "And there will be flowers in February." I've never forgotten that phrase, not just what she said but how she said it. She said it with such hope; it was as if she wanted me to know that yes, despite the rain and frequent cloud cover in Oregon, there were benefits to the climate, including the lush green horizon, and yes, flowers in February, bringing with them an early end to winter and a restoration of life and vibrancy and happiness.

This year I'm especially grateful for flowers in February.