SPRINGFIELD, Ga. — Every morning, I drive to work and pass a long-abandoned homestead on the side of State Route 17. I’ve always been fascinated by relics of the past and their stories, so my near-daily glances at this collapsing structure, which once resembled someone’s home, make me wonder what series of events led it to where it stands today.

Daffodils of hope

About a week ago, I noticed a brilliant streak of yellow and orange running parallel to the front entrance of the fragmented facade. It reminded me of something I read in a book about daffodils marking old settlements. If I remember correctly, the passage went something like this:

Several generations ago, people planted daffodils around cabins and farmhouses. They heralded a much-needed start to spring, and deer rarely bothered them. Because they multiplied easily and endured rugged conditions, daffodils became symbols of hope and new beginnings in lives that weren’t always easy. These bulbs are so hardy that, even now, they keep blooming, reminding us of the legacy of those who came before.

Spring events arrive

With a light dusting of pollen coating everything you own, locals like us have accepted the inevitable: spring has sprung, and the wheel of time keeps moving into the next phase of our lives. If the sudden onset of lethal yellow spray hasn’t penetrated every part of your life, another good sign of spring is that events are finally starting to pop up again.

If you’re new to The ‘Ham, here’s a little secret: we don’t do cold. Winters here are usually humid in the bone-chilling sense, windy, and frankly unpleasant. With the exception of our numerous Christmas programs, fall festivals usually mark our final hurrah before a few months of well-earned respite.

It makes sense. Our lizard brains are hard-wired to hunker down and rest when conditions are hostile. Our instincts guide us toward self-preservation—unless it’s peak traffic on Highway 21. Then we act like we fear nothing.

As I’ve noticed the seasonal cadence here, I’ve concluded that the first events of spring say a lot about our community’s core values. Check the calendar for this month and next, and you’ll see our days are full of worthy causes.

I didn’t attend, but I heard from reliable sources that Effingham Health System’s "Gears and Grub" was a smash hit, raising money and sharing vital information to support community-owned healthcare. Wellness close to home? I can get behind that.

And that’s just the start. The rest of the season is packed. From the Habitat for Humanity gala, where guests support attainable housing with live entertainment, to the Two Rivers (the charitable arm of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce) inaugural "Bridles and Bourbon" derby party, there’s something for everyone. If seersucker and spectacular hats are your thing, you can sip mint juleps and help build long-term community strength.

Speaking of first-of-their-kind celebrations, I’d be remiss not to mention my own upcoming event: the all-new "Mars Legacy Gala." Picture it: you and your inner circle, dressed in old Hollywood glam, step into a magical night of dancing, music, cinema, and some of your favorite local bites. We’ll have a live auction featuring experiences and artisan goods from friends and neighbors, and after debuting "The Mars Documentary," we plan to dance the night away. This event celebrates and honors the legacy of The Mars and those who helped make it a fixture in our community. It would mean the world if you joined us.

Children first

And I can’t forget the kids. Here in Effingham County, we believe our children are our future. We nurture their growing minds and celebrate their unique selves. Some of my favorite events supporting children include CURE, "Night of Champions," and GLOW (God Loves Orphans and Widows) prom. CURE personally impacted me, and attending will have you laughing, crying, and running into dozens of people you know—all while raising vital funds for childhood cancer research.

Night of Champions isn’t technically in Effingham, but it sends a powerful message: ability is greater than disability. GLOW Prom isn’t a fundraiser—it’s a night for special-needs friends to dress up and have fun. Other notable events include the Hope Ranch Zoo opening and the Harley Ink/Olde Towne Barbers first-anniversary party. I could go on forever listing impactful events that elevate and inspire our community.

Like those daffodils of long ago, these community-minded events are the seeds—or bulbs—of hope we plant for a brighter future. As you shake off the cozy shadow of winter this year, stand in appreciation of the fruits of those who came before and continue to till the soil for those who come after.

Love y’all. Mean it.