This time of year really excites me. Spring brings a sense of promise, optimism and hope. I think that the frenzy of growing activity translates into an energy that’s something beyond the relief of it not being so cold anymore. Living in a part of the world where there are four very distinct seasons has really helped me appreciate and feel this renewal. When I lived in Singapore, I never really felt a change in seasons (well, that’s the tropics for you, I suppose). Even in Australia—where I spent my first 23 or so years in Perth and then Melbourne—it was never so obvious as the changes I see and feel here in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. I’m very thankful.