Spring

Spring is the season after winter and before summer. It lasts from March through May in the Northern Hemisphere and from September through November in the Southern Hemisphere. In the middle latitudes, where there are four seasons, spring begins with the melting of snow, increasing daylight hours, and rising temperatures. These factors increase plant photosynthesis and growth with the awakening of nature's bounty. No longer blanketed by the winter snow, spring brings on the renewal of life. The name "spring" comes from the fact that new plant growth "springs forth".

All over the world people, animals, and plants feel this exuberant spirit. We feel full of curiosity and more energy than we feel at any other season. We see new life with trees budding, grass growing, and youth in all living beings. Hibernating animals awaken and come out of their winter sleeping places.

Throughout human history the year has often begun with spring. In some cultures March has been the first month. This has made September, October, November, and December the seventh, eighth, ninth, and tenth months. Where did these months get their names? They came
from the Latin prefixes sept-, oct-, nov-, and dec-, for seven, eight, nine, and ten respectively. Many cultures today hold festivals celebrating the arrival of spring. Afghanistan celebrates the first day of spring as the start of the new year. Australia, where spring begins in September, holds their Spring Racing Carnival of thoroughbred horse racing. The first day of spring(which is also the new year) is on March 21st during the vernal equinox in Persia(Iran). This day is called Nowruz or "New Day". These are just a few examples.

Tropical climates barely notice spring because their temperatures barely change throughout the year. But for those of us in the higher latitudes, especially the temperate regions, spring is truly special. And I'm enjoying mine this year-it's in the 60s many days here in Ohio!