We drive through the Skagit Valley, getting off the main roads and into the farmland. I am happy to discover there are birds everywhere. He stops, backs up, and turns around when I ask. There is a sprinkling of snow on the mountain tops surrounding the valley, but I can feel spring around the corner. We stop on our way home and buy one espresso milkshake (for lunch!), and share it. When we get home I soak some lentils, bought at the India market yesterday, and make Dal for dinner. As the house fills with warming spices I feel a bit settled, allowing the goodness of the last few days to wash over me.