It was a long winter in western North Carolina. It seemed like it began earlier than usual, was colder than it has been in a while, and we had more rounds of winter weather than we have experienced in years. Even the most ardent snow-lovers were tired of being stuck inside. Finally, the trees and flowers are beginning to bloom, joining the singing birds announcing that spring is here. Western North Carolina comes alive this time of year. The mountains turn pink, then red, then the most brilliant, lush green. The one downside might be that as the trees grow their leaves, our cars, decks, porches, sidewalks, and every other surface turn yellow with pollen.