The Official Start of Spring

Most people don't tend to think of spring as a date on a calendar.  Sure, March 20th is the first official day of the season, but if it's a blustery, wintry March 20th does that really count?  And if it doesn't, what does? 

 

For example, I'm friends with many birdwatchers.  I can't count how many times I've heard them talk about their fist robin or red-winged blackbird of the season, exclaiming "Spring is here!". 

And what gardener doesn't joyously exclaim "Spring is here!" when they see the first daffodil, with its bright yellow petticoats, adorning the yard?

But on the farm?  On the farm nothing quite says "Spring is here!" like the first calf of the season.

 

In Irish Grove, Spring officially started on April 8, 2011.

 

  At 9:23 a.m. to be exact.