Finally, our reward. The long gray skies have given way to color. Everywhere throughout Concord the lilacs are in bloom and no place more so than this Concord Center home that dresses each year in such beautiful finery. The lilac bushes and vines give the town a feel of yesteryear, characterized by a fragrance and visual beauty that is oh so welcome. They announce Spring’s intention to stay for the duration.

Lilacs were at the height of popularity in the 19th century when much of the design and building of this historic town center was still evolving. Main Street, Concord is adorned in both apple blossoms and lilacs presently. They are a wonderful gift to the here and now from times past.

This is one of those unusual spots around town that attracts a combined universe of locals and visitors. Miles of rivers, the same that were traveled by Henry David Thoreau in his time, are open for exploration. The South Bridge Boat House offers those without kayak or canoe the chance to rent for an hour, afternoon or day and the freedom to roam the waterways of Concord and Sudbury. You may find others traversing the same route but dipping in at different points. These are more likely the locals from Concord or surrounding towns.

Concord a few years ago was voted healthiest town in Massachusetts. This is not entirely a surprise as there is a big contingent of local kayakers and cyclists both of whom, if you’re coming to visit, you are sure to see out in force. It is one of the nicest things about this area. People truly do realize what they have in their midst. And instead of driving by what others readily flock to, the environmental jewels of the area are recognized and actively appreciated.

The South Bridge Boat House is located about a quarter of a mile outside of Concord Center heading toward West Concord on Route 62. It is located at 496 Main Street and can be reached at 978-369-9438. They just opened for the season a few weeks ago and will remain open into the late Fall.

In Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic book, Anne of Green Gables, the protagonist, Anne, describes an impossibly beautiful route as the “White Way of Delight”. This footpath is our very own White Way in early Spring. Starting across the street from The Colonial Inn on the opposite site of Lowell Road, it stretches behind Main Street and crosses over Mill Brook with the use of a wooden bridge.

This is a wonderful way for any visitor on foot to experience the quieter side of Concord Center. It is a terrific alternative to the main roads especially on days the roads are congested with cars or bikes. If one takes the path, they will end up in the parking lot behind Main Streets Market & Cafe. Several yards to the immediate left is a picturesque alley between the Cafe and the Bank. Wind your way up and it will drop you off at the crossroads of Main St. and Walden St.; a perfect place from which to start any exploration of the Town.

Winter is now officially over. Never mind that Spring has been on the calendar for weeks, it is classic to New England that we go from Polartec to Sun dresses in a matter of days…and so is the case with us. April Vacation is here and it gives Emily, Ally and I a chance to explore our world sans rain boots and layers. We are in the midst of our Summer preview and the girls are determined to make the most of it.

Today we chose to hike the acres of trails around Great Brook Farm in Carlisle. Walking with great purpose my seven year old led the way. We marveled at the array of bird calls and even the sound of moving water…something that truly surprises after months of stillness. This place is a treasure. There is also Great Brook’s Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Stand on premises, a great reward after a long hike. The paths are very well marked and open, perfect for the novice or more serious hiker.

You can almost hear the hum on Main Street as preparations continue for the Patriot’s Day celebrations. The dust and debris that gathered on sidewalks from endless plowing over a very long winter, is now gone. The store front windows are gleaming and several shops have opened their doors, displaying their merchandise to passerbys, in equal celebration of Spring.

This is a Town embracing its splendor and tradition. Weeks of preparations have resulted in striking red, white and blue banners and graceful half arches over every doorway, window and pillar.

The Banks are perhaps the most majestic with their imposing Greek Revival architecture and Doric columns adorned in patriotic color. The picture I chose today hopefully captures just this. It is the Middlesex Savings Bank on Main Street. This local Bank’s positive reputation within Concord equals its visual prominence. It has been a major part of the community for decades, promoting the Arts, contributing to the Town and even donating the land for the Concord Visitor’s Center.