Spring on Bainbridge Island--in all its forms~

The aphorism we used about March when I grew up was, "In like a lion, out like a lamb," or vice versa. It seemed that you count on March beginning or ending with either a storm or glorious sunshine.

In the Northwest, we can get lambs and lions lying down together in any given March day--and sometimes in any given hour.

The signs of spring couldn't be more glorious than they are this week, with the daffodils and flowering trees in full bloom. My neighbor's tulip tree broke into its full glory on Sunday.

However, one moment the sun is shining on blossoms, and the next minute the wind is battering them left and right as the heavens open to sputtering rain. Paths and walkways are littered with pink and white petals.

On Tuesday afternoon the freak wind storm that hit was beyond any of the normal March madness. The whole island lost power as limbs and even whole trees came crashing down. I had an appointment in Seattle, and the normally placid Sound was rocking with waves, swells and white caps. The ferries are so huge that the ride stayed essentially smooth, but I was glad I was on such a big boat.

Most of the island got power by evening, but the crowds in the Town and Country Market were disappointed to learn that all the hot foods--the rotisserie chickens and soups--had been thrown out. Nonetheless, people were chatting in the aisles about how wonderful it is during power outtages. I saw families buying popcorn to roast in their fireplaces. I overheard people say that their kids talk to them without electricity, that without the intrusion of cell phones, computers, and television they linger over the dinner table lit by candles.

Today the sun is shining, the fallen trees have been removed by chainsaws and trucks and the power is fully restored. Green debris is still on the roadsides, evidence of the giant shaking the wind storm gave our cedars and Douglas firs. Soon road crews will sweep the roads clean and the plum blossoms will melt away on the paths. But for now, I'm enjoying the spring finery draped across our island home.