Editor’s Letter

After a full year of living with the pandemic, the arrival of Spring 2021 just might be the most eagerly anticipated change of seasons we’ve ever experienced here in Canada. Somehow, all the little things that come with spring’s blossoming—like being able to step outdoors more comfortably and more often— seem to have taken on greater significance this year.

Being able to “Tiptoe through the Tulips” in springtime (see page 44!) is one of life’s little pleasures we look forward to all winter long and, like many things, may have been taking for granted.

Now more so than ever, getting out to enjoy nature’s beauty wherever and however you can is a great way to lift your spirits—as the floral photography gracing our cover (courtesy of Marnie Bonnett) and the added splashes of nature’s colours throughout this issue leave no doubt! Sometimes, nature’s beauty can be appreciated right on your front porch! Such was the case for Anne Greschuk of Mississauga, who spent many joyous hours during lockdown watching through her front window as a pair of robins moved into a cozy nook on the gallery, settled in and raised a family (page16).

While it might be too early to pack the car, there’s no harm in travelling vicariously this spring. As a reminder of the splendour that awaits us down the road, tag along with contributor Sylvain Champagne for a photographic tour of the famed Grey Bruce region of Ontario (page 8). For outdoor adventure, scenic wonder and the sheer awe of experiencing nature in the wild, head to Our Travels on page 20, where Norma Van Alstine shares photos and tales from the trail while tracking wild horses in Alberta.

Happily, as your incoming submissions continue to bear out, hope does indeed spring eternal! Thanks, everyone—stay safe, enjoy!