Spring in The Netherlands

I cannot believe my eyes. The sun is out! I was born in the “sunshine State.” Autumn and winter was a bit of a culture shock. It’s been months since I’ve seen the sun but it’s finally here! I repeat, spring in The Netherlands is here!

I used to brag about how I loved the rain and despised the lack of it but being here was a bit different. On rainy days I used to snuggle up and spend a cozy time at home because they were so rare. The rainy season was very mild this year. It drizzled for two weeks in total. But I wasn’t prepared for a strange range of emotions.

On one side, I loved how the rain used to patter on the windows. I loved how the fog settled above the rooftops. It made the neighborhood look like a kingdom buried in mystery. I could gaze over chimney stacks that bellowed chalky smoke.

It made me feel cozy. I wanted to indulge in in calm music and read a book. I wanted to spend the entire rainy day locked away in a warm cocoon.

And this happened day after day after day. I wasn’t depressed because of the lack of sun. I wanted to snuggle down in my sweats and a cup of hot tea. The lack of sunlight made me lethargic but content.

Now that the sun is out, I want to be active again. It’s like I’m a bear coming out of hibernation. Of course we couldn’t leave little Booker behind! I’m worried about the bees! She tracks them and hunts them down while Sander and I do our best to keep her away. Last thing we want is a dead bee and a swollen muzzle.

Spring in The Netherlands brings about so much joy. The parks in the area have pre-planted bulbs that sprout in warmer weather. Now that the temperature is higher and the air is drier, green leaves are everywhere.

When I see this plants, I understand spring in The Netherlands. The warm sun on your face, a slight wind that caresses your cheek, all those Easter colors… The sky is an endless blue and everything feels fresh. And of course with a wonderful person and a feisty dog to share in this good weather, what more could anyone ask for?