Spring in northwestern Ontario arrived late this year, with new leaves not even open at the Victoria Day long weekend. Despite this, there are many signs that spring is persevering. I began a small garden plot in a tree-sheltered nook in our yard, and I’m planning to plant wildflowers and other floral specimens later.

Pope Francis had barely begun this yearöÏÓãÊÓƵapp Lenten message when the talk turned to womenöÏÓãÊÓƵapp wombs.

ItöÏÓãÊÓƵapp been the winter of our discontent.

After a practically snow-free December and January, the Maritime provinces were relentlessly buffeted by snowfall after snowfall during February and March. 
Two and sometimes three storms in a week left Nova Scotians scratching their heads and cussing their fortunes.


As the long winter days finally come to an end, I welcome the arrival of spring. Flowers are in blossom, leaves have reappeared on trees and our surroundings are starting to be filled with beautiful shades of green — just in time for World Environment Day.