Of spring and returning mallards

As seasons change, the comfort of layers lets you enjoy the winter-to-spring cusp.

Today on my daily walk, I skirted the vernal pond in our back yard to allow the three mallards swimming there some peace on the water. I suspect they are finding lots of tadpoles to eat and am happy to welcome them back. One of the things I love about the change of seasons is anticipating the good things to come each year. (Our pond has hosted a pair of mallards most every spring in the couple of decades we’ve lived here, but I can’t account for the second male. An open marriage perhaps?)

Flowers in bloom, birds singing—and me shedding some of the layers of wool sweaters and socks as the weather warms into spring—are pleasurable rites of the season. I’m eagerly anticipating lighter clothing and the feeling that I just lost a couple pounds because I need fewer layers! Today, I’m already wearing one of my  hemp – Tencel tops (though in truth, under a woolen sweater) and look forward to soon pairing it with a  skirt without leggings or tights underneath.

What mallards and Sympatico’s hemp tops have in common

Those mallards in our pond know a thing or two about layering also. The layer of down that grows closest to their skin is a magnificent insulating material, shielding them from winter’s iciest blasts. The birds’ feather structure helps insulate mallards as well by locking in warm air. The oils secreted through the mallard’s skin adds a further layer of protection against water and wind. Likewise, we can keep ourselves snugger and dryer when we layer natural fiber clothing. Both the hemp and Tencel fibers in Sympatico’s apparel are ideally suited to capturing air warmed by your body heat.

Until the weather warms, I’m very grateful for the rain we’re currently receiving after the devastating wildfire season of 2020. It can get dangerously dry in our southern Oregon forests. Still, anticipating sunshine and warm days puts a smile on my lips.

What are you eagerly anticipating (and what will you wear)?!?

Rose Gerstner founded the Oregon hemp clothing company Sympatico Clothing to offer sustainably made casual skirts, tops, and pants to consumers seeking comfort and environmentally friendly apparel.