Springtime
[noun] ‘an early or flourishing stage of development’.
Monday 23 September marks the vernal equinox in New Zealand. It is a time of new beginnings and promise; a time of renewed energy and increased warmth in an emergence from winter’s incubation.
An equinox is a time during the year when night and day are almost equal. There are two equinoxes; in spring and autumn and these are defined by the angle of earth’s tilt toward the sun. During these times, the earth neither tilts toward or away from the sun.
Spring is defined by warmer temperatures and increased rainfall, making it perfect for growth and regeneration. Many animals give birth during spring and even in humans, the birth rate is higher during this season. Some cultures celebrate the return of spring every year, for example, Japan has the cherry blossom festival - the cherry, or sakura - symbolising the transience of life. Jewish people celebrate Passover and in other northern hemisphere Christian countries, Easter falls in springtime.
As New Zealand starts to uncurl from it’s winter hibernation, all the signs are here for a glorious spring season. Trees are in blossom; the grass has an increased luminance; the days are longer; birds are singing louder and the sound of lawn mowers are beginning to permeate the weekend. It is little surprise that people ‘spring clean’ and start to feel a new sense of purpose during this time of year - it brings with it so much promise.
Spring is the time for awakening and for wonder.
The magnolia blossom above, adorned its tree along with many others all in varying stages of arrival. The magnolia to me, signifies more than any other flower, springs imminent visit; more so than the daffodil.
The magnolia is an ancient tree - around a long time before bees were - and originated in South East Asia. There are many different varieties of the tree, with blooms ranging in size, shape and colour. To me they are simply stunning and one of the treasures of spring.
The image above, is available as a digital download for sale from my gallery/shop page.