Spring post

Happy Spring… well kind of….

@highdesertbonsai like most bonsai enthusiasts in the northern hemisphere we are gearing up for what I call the Spring-time shuffle. It’s a delicate dance of waking our trees up. Preparing for shows, and getting the season started with the “shuffle”… By that I mean – pulling the trees from their winter resting place into a greenhouse, cold frame or a garage. Moving the trees out into the sunlight when the conditions are right and then back into protection in the evenings. This process usually starts around late Jan for me. This year was no different… again… well kind of… There is this one thing that was different… Covid-19. This has been throwing the world into a tailspin for the past couple of months as you are aware. Now I’m not here to take a stance on severity or to tell you how to handle your business… no, that’s each and every person’s right and choice. However, we should all stay safe and value/honor each other’s wishes.

My family hasn’t gone full lock down here, but we are not putting ourselves out there if not needed. I still go out collecting and enjoy that time in the mountains - doubtful this will never change - but what this did do was cancel all events and amplify that spring cabin fever we all get around this time. Our Spring show, Club functions, and workshops that I look forward to. All of the small gatherings I invite fellow enthusiasts to have all been put on hold. It’s especially tough when you have been preparing your works of art to share with the masses. Springtime can, and for me IS the most beautiful time of year to appreciate my trees. I’m not here to argue about your position, but for me its like Christmas morning extended over the course of 30-45 days.  In fact, its so special I am willing to move my trees multiple times of day for this feeling.

I guess what I would like you to take away from this post is this…. Appreciate the small things, every leaf, every new bud. Take your time and soak up the good vibes while replanting or styling your tree. Be thankful that this time is here and that you are able to enjoy it. Try to not get bogged down with negativity and the “hype”. Stay safe and take care of each other.

Jon