Spring Cleaning And Then Some

We had an unusually late spring this year, including snow storms in late April and early May.  We were getting anxious for the return of the sun and change of the season.  Springtime in our woods is fabulous.  The first sign that you know it's really here is the chorus of frog songs.  The spring peepers start up first, then other species join in.

The next sign I look for is green vegetation.  The late snow delayed the blossoming of woodland flowers.  The tall tree line to the south of our clearing keeps the yard shaded.  I watched the glacial retreat of that snow as it crawled towards the woods.  Finally...I spied the newly green horsetail growing on the ravine hillside.  Horsetail is great in an arrangement because it keeps its color.  I spruced up the front doorstep and incorporated a small bunch of horsetail on my grapevine wreath.

Springtime greens and blooms are welcoming.

Just a few days later, I found a small purple crocus that seems to have escaped from the flower bed.  I placed a plastic box over it when I heard another spring snowstorm was coming! It has survived.

Spring housecleaning is something I actually enjoy.  I get a real sense of satisfaction and enjoyment from having a clean, beautiful home.  This year there is an added sense of purpose; we have decided to sell our strawbale home!  It is time for us to return to the city.  It's not an easy move, we love our home in the woods.  We built this home ourselves with the help of many friends,  family and curious strangers.  It's beautiful, functional and located in an peaceful setting.

So, now with a burst of energy and a looming deadline we are sorting, storing, giving away, and cleaning. We are doing those little overlooked tasks that we always meant to and wish we'd done sooner so that we can enjoy the results.  Window cleaning is very satisfying, because the changing scenery is so compelling.  Two large picture windows in the dining room provide a great view of trees leafing out and robins returning.  This past week I also saw bluebirds, gold finches and a flock of 10 loons on their way north. (The loons were viewed from our canoe in the Sunrise River).

Another of my favorite views is of the woods through two windows:  the glass-walled walk-in shower and bathroom window.  There is actually a woods view from the shower!  Luxurious!

Towards the woods view through the window.

Marble countertop and custom cherry cabinetry.

A spacious, beautiful bathroom.

It's an especially nice place to unwind after a day of climbing ladders to clean upper windows!

Watch this blog for more information on the sale of Minnesota's first strawbale home. Cheers, Laura.