February at The Outsiders Ranch

When it comes to foretelling Spring’s return we don’t look to the ground but rather the skies. One morning in early February, the crystallized silence of winter’s stoic sunrises is suddenly broken. In formation, honking their announcement, the geese arrive. Their determination of spirit is inscribed in the sky like an arrowhead pointing to a cyclical truth.

"Life returns anew!"

To the observant it is clear that Spring is already afoot. One just has to look down to see their feet awash in freshly fallen Ponderosa pinecones. February begins pick-your-own-pinecone season at The Outsiders Ranch. Now is the time to gather perfect Fibonacci spiraling specimens, yet to be weathered or nibbled, to store for next winter’s holiday crafts. It is time to start moving, outside, again. As the sap begins to flow in the trees, so too does the blood begin to pump in our own bodies. It is the quickening time.  Winter’s long nap is over, we’ve processed our dreams into intentions, and are beginning to clear what we can while we wait with seed in hand for the earth to thaw. Our fresh ideas and plans for the waxing year are growing brighter with each day. Yet, February insists that we have patience.

For a month that traditionally begins with weather predictions, February is anything but predictable. Highs of fifty degrees are followed by lows of zero as  snow storms weave throughout the month. February is dynamic and unexpected - a force by which we are enlivened and made bold.