FAMILY blog
The Spring That Sprung Early
I could start this by talking about how frigid our winter was
between White’s Ferry to Point of Rocks. The aqueduct itself took
and how thankful I am for the thaw out and spring blossoms.

22 years to build, with construction ending in 1850. The hike itself
But, in actuality, we’ve had more of a spring than winter—
sounds fun with river views, and is good for all ages. (For more
with warmer temperatures that started in January. And, the cherry
blossoms have been blooming since November, so the typical
“I’m thankful for spring” banter has gone out the already-open
area trails, visit our guide online!)
Like a good hike, what’s also cleansing is the annual spring purge.

window. While this may not be as fun as fi nding Easter eggs on Capitol Hill
With that one and only “winter storm” behind us, I think it’s safe
about diving into a closet or exploring the back corners of the
or hiking up to a waterfall, there is something oddly satisfying
to start fi nally planning our spring calendars. There are some
pretty exciting events happening throughout the DMV region this
dresser in search of forgotten clothes. There are many charities
throughout the DMV that go beyond resale shops, and take
month. unwanted clothing and give them directly to those who need them
Throughout April, many area parks, farms, orchards, museums
the workforce by accepting donations of business-ready clothing.

most. Several organizations help men and women get ready for
and other attractions are hosting Easter-themed parties! From
egg hunts to egg dying, bounce houses to pony rides, these
events have something for kids of all ages. And, they’re scattered
throughout the month, so you can go to one or a few!
What I really am looking forward to this month, are more
opportunities to go outside. Being in the fresh air is cleansing. It’s
fi nally hiking season and our area boasts some pretty amazing
trails and attractions. Hiking throughout Banshee Reeks Nature
Or, there are nonprofi ts that accept maternity wear and baby
items, helping vulnerable women and their children get on their
feet. (For a list of some local charities and what they accept, head
to our website!)
Even though it felt like our spring started in January, there are so
many ways to celebrate the actual spring season. Here’s hoping
we get a few good weeks of “spring,” and our summer is mild and
not that humid.

Preserve sounds like a neat experience: There are 20 miles of trails
in the 725-acre preserve, with views of forests, wetlands and a
historic 1830s log cabin. Plus, the name originated from a local
farmer who heard such a powerful and howling wind, that he
thought he heard a banshee. (“Reeks” in the Gaelic language refers
to hills or dales. Hence, Banshee Reeks.)
Monocacy Aqueduct sounds like a very interesting hike as well, as
it’s the largest aqueduct on the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal. The
manmade aqueduct marks the halfway point of the trail that runs
6 April 2017
washingtonFAMILY.com Beth Roessner
Managing Editor
Washington FAMILY Magazine
broessner@thefamilymagazine.com