It’s been a pretty busy week for me so far, what with Marathon Monday having taken place a couple of days ago, a lot of commitments and deadlines to meet at work in the coming days, the usual errands to run and being in the thick of Spring cleaning my apartment, closet, and car (I’m nearly done, though!) – so by the end of the day I’m usually ready to just curl up and fall asleep to any one of my comfort shows or movies by 10PM. I know I’ll have more energy and more motivation after I get through this week, of course – but it’s just a matter of getting there, first!
Regardless of a pretty stacked schedule and having what feels like a million things happening all at once, I’ve been mindful to pause and appreciate the subtle signs of Spring in and around the Pioneer Valley and The Berkshires as of late. There are the pops of pinks, purples, white and yellows from the trees and shrubs to admire during any of my many commutes in recent days, which is always beautiful to see – but so many of my beloved local businesses have embraced warmer, sunnier days in their own ways, too.
GOMBO in Northampton recently re-opened their new and improved outdoor dining area on Main Street, complete with greenery and lighting to set a more celebratory mood, and Gigantic in Easthampton have been opening their huge front windows at the front of the bar to let the breeze in for patrons as they sip on offerings from their newly released Spring menu (the ‘East of Istanbul’ beverage is my favorite, by the way.)
But one of the most official “Spring is here to stay” events that happened recently was the seasonal reopening of The Bistro Box in Great Barrington, Massachusetts. I’ve written about them so many times in Springs/Summers past, and for good reason – their food is incredible and their staff are the sweetest! Dan and I stopped by a few days ago to welcome them back while we grabbed lunch and it was like a little family reunion after such a long Fall and Winter apart!
And pretty soon, we’ll have the first taste of the Summer when Kooks up in Rye, New Hampshire opens for the season in a few weeks. I took the day off for that celebration – that’s how excited I am!
Regardless of where you live, I highly recommend seeking out signs of Spring – big or small! – in your own community. It’s one of my favorite things to do this time of year, even when I’m in the middle of a busy, bustling week.
I’ll be closing out this week by sharing a light and unexpected pasta recipe that’s perfect to try this time of year, so stay tuned!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 