As we approach the spring or vernal equinox, this is the perfect time to celebrate lighter mornings, longer days and the sweet fragrance of young leaves.

I invite you to take a stroll where you can see at least a tree or two. Take time to notice the creatures rustling amid the trees – the finches, wrens, blue tits and robins. Perhaps beetles creak here, and spiders teasing out the silken threads of their webs. Maybe a squirrel flurries past or a tiny shrew. What else might lurk, unseen?

Why not make this flourishing wild environment the focus of a poem, painting or other creative act? Could the unfurling leaves represent a fresh beginning or renewed hope? Could there be a threat – human or otherwise – hidden among the new abundance?

Bear in mind the colour green as you create, with all its connotations of nature, luck, health and tranquillity, but feel free to add a ribbon of danger too!

If you write or create something prompted by this, please send an email to judydarley (at) iCloud.com to let me know. With your permission, I may publish it on SkyLightRain.com.