We’ve just passed the vernal equinox, and days in Vancouver are already longer than nights. In the morning, we are woken by birdsong. After several false starts, spring is now firmly with us. Cherry blossoms are blooming, especially the later varieties, the dazzling white Akebono with just a hint of pink, and then buds gathering on Kazans, green with deep pink tips. Ducks and geese are pairing up. Eagles, too,