Happy Spring!

By Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Despite the cold weather in Iowa this past week, the Easter season marks the beginning of spring. Warm weather, rain, and the creation of new life is just around the corner.

The grass has already become green and trees begin budding with new leaves. Nothing is more breathtaking than seeing the tulips and daffodils bloom across Iowa.

Whether it is going to the Farmers Market around the square in Washington, to experience the warm weather with friends and family, there is something refreshing about springtime in Iowa that cannot be found anywhere else.

Seasonal attractions such as the Dan Nagle Grove Pioneer Village in Scott County open their doors to the public, farmers are preparing to plant and sidewalk cafes pop up once again.

Spring also marks the return of baseball, with Little League teams starting practice and the Burlington Bees, Quad Cities River Bandits, and the Clinton LumberKings beginning their seasons. We also get to look toward the return of baseball to the Field of Dreams later this summer.

In addition to watching baseball, some of my favorite things to do during the springtime are enjoying the sunshine while walking the numerous trails in southeast Iowa with my husband, Curt, and having picnics on a blanket while reading a good book. I encourage everyone to go outside and do something that they enjoy whether it be going to a local park or starting a garden.

Farmers across the state recognize spring as the beginning of the planting season and start preparing months ahead. Some people, like myself, see spring as the time to start gardening and planting flowers. Another rite of spring is Easter, bringing a season of color, warmth and the hope of new life.

I fondly remember the joy of Easter coloring eggs, going to church followed by Easter egg hunts with my family and children, and the traditions of this joyous holiday. I hope that you and your family had a wonderful Easter and have a blessed spring!

Mariannette Miller-Meeks is a resident of Ottumwa who currently represents Iowa’s Second District in the United States House of Representatives.