So one day you're out puttering around in the yard, dreaming fondly of rototilling and wondering just when, oh when, will that last patch of snow melt away from the garden? Off in the distance, someone's phone rings, and then in answer, someone else's phone rings across the forest. That seems odd, you think, and then you realize: a varied thrush sings tring-aling-aling.

By now, Betsteroids, you've probably gotten hip to the Betster's Secret Philosophy of the Alaska Seasons. Here's how it goes: the seasons here come not with a bang, but a whimper. Or, as the bird song of the day shows, with a lullaby. Each morning walk announces the arrival — and mating tune — of yet another bird. Thrushes, snipes, robins, warblers and, soon, sandhill cranes.

Take a moment to listen, because from here on out, the signs of spring start appearing faster than a line or RVs roaring down Baycrest Hill on Memorial Day weekend. Easter? Check. Tax day? Over. The last snowfall of the season? Don't bet the rent, but maybe. Studded tires changeover? Made the appointment. Prom night? Whew. Graduation? Get out the handkerchiefs. Shorebird Festival? Dust off the spotting scope. You see?

So while you're pondering Betster Philosophy 101, don't forget to get out and have some fun, like these Best Bets:

BEST GREEN STARS ALL AROUND: Your momma has been good to you. No, no, not the one who brought you into the world — the big planet we all live on that gives us life. Celebrate this big blue and green marble with Earth Day activities Saturday at the Alaska Islands and Ocean Visitor Center. Events start at 9:30 a.m. and run until 3 p.m.

BEST BE PREPARED BET: Serious stuff, that death and dying. Take a time out your busy schedule to listen in at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the East Campus, Kachemak Bay Campus, when Hospice of Homer presents a panel discussion on making end-of-life decisions — while we're all still healthy.

BEST IF IT'S WEDNESDAY IT MUST BE HOBO BET: Ah, another summer tradition returns: Hobo Jim crooning at a local bar. With Alice's closed, he's not at his usual venue, but you can catch him at 9 p.m. Wednesday night at Duggan's Waterfront Pub on Bunnell Avenue.