Spring, in so many ways, is talked about as a new beginning – a time to start fresh, a time of renewal or rebirth. However, spring also signals the end of winter. For those who relish in cold, sunny days in the woods or on the ski hill, the lengthening of days and the melting of snow and ice indicates the conclusion of these activities for another year. Often, the endings are what set us on new paths or create space for new ideas to take hold.

Personally, the month of February can be a difficult time of year, and this year has been no exception. At the end of February, my grandmother and my great aunt both passed away, within minutes of each other. At the ages of 100 and 93, respectively, they had lives filled with love, kindness, laughter and determination. Sisters originally from Scotland, they blazed their own trails and lived life on their terms, right until the end.

These endings, although sad, are not tragic. One of my two brothers noted it was “oddly comforting” to know they were gone together, as they had spent so much of their lives together, as friends as well as siblings. These women were influential figures in my life, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. The memories and legacies of these two women will carry on.

Endings, even sad or difficult ones, present the opportunity for renewal. As humans, we don’t hibernate through winter like many animals. But, for animals who do emerge from their dens in spring, the end of winter is a chance to begin again. A new beginning is a chance to honour the past and what has been done while moving forward, to a new place, making use of all we know in the present.

The hope of spring is in the possibilities that await. Like the fresh shoots of grass poking through the melting snow, the transition from winter to spring gives hope for brighter days, warmer temperatures, and new adventures.

This is the first Spring edition of Unique Muskoka since 2020 and the long-lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. I am pleased to once again have a Spring edition to bridge the gap between our late Fall/Winter edition and our June edition. Like the season, this edition has plenty for you to take in.

Spring’s sweet treat, maple syrup, is the focus of one of the features in this edition of Unique Muskoka. Regular contributor Bronwyn Boyer shares details of the Muskoka Maple Trail and the Muskoka Maple Festival, along with details from local sugaring operations about crafting the sweet syrup.

Bronwyn Boyer also shares how artist, teacher and self-proclaimed “serial entrepreneur” Andrea Balmer creates a collaborative yet unpretentious space in the heart of Muskoka.

 Balmer’s love for community and art breathes life into downtown Bracebridge.

Local historian and contributor J. Patrick Boyer delves into the foundational history of Muskoka. Thousands of years before settlement, Indigenous people called Muskoka home, even if only temporarily. The artifacts that have been found in the region provide a glimpse of the lives lived and give perspective on the history of the area being much more extensive than settlement.

For those ready to get out into forests and explore the colourful sights and fresh sounds of the season, Tim du Vernet shares his knowledge of the varied flora that comes alive as the temperatures shift and the days grow longer.

Whether you see spring as an ending or a beginning, or a bit of both, there are plenty of features in this edition of Unique Muskoka to look to for inspiration and information. Enjoy the most of this transitional season.

Happy reading!