Mother Nature took her time getting to spring in the Adirondacks this year. Miraculously, the damp, snowy, and cold spring of last weekend is a mere memory, supplanted by yesterday’s surprise 70-degree heat. Slowly but surely, the spring sun cannot be denied; it is getting warmer and greener in the Adirondacks.

Hardwood buds, delicate Spring Beauties, and Yellow Wood Violets are barely discernible, but a sharp eye is rewarded.

The sweet, flowery fragrance of Spring Beauties is a treat for the perceptive hiker with a good nose.

A dance requires a melody. The Adirondack Spring Mosey chugs along to the sound track of the Chickadee mating call, “Hey Zigggeeeee, hey Zigggeeee, hey Zigggeeee,” honking Geese, shrieking Blue Jays and Saw-Whet Owls, quacking Mallards, peeping Spring Peepers, yelping and gobbling Turkeys, and melodious Thrushes.

Drumming Grouse and the rat-a-tat-tat of Woodpeckers provide a solid percussion track for this slow dance, and the lost Sea Gulls’ screams seem right at home alongside Adirondack Raven and Crow caws.

It may mosey, but spring does not come quietly to the Adirondacks.