First off, I'm a Heinz 57, which means I'm a genetic conglomerate of sorts. I'm a little bit Native American with a generous helping of Irish, Scottish, English and other Celtic bloodlines of folks who traversed the Atlantic a century or so ago. I've always looked more like the latter cultures mentioned, since I have green eyes, a plethora of freckles and red undertones in my hair.

One look at my father and you see where I get it. An Irishman, he is. He's truly a character, always coming up with silly voices and whimsical tales, too. As a wee one growing up in the country, I was always drawn to what I perceived then as a huge stump in the middle of one of our fields. It was weathered and knotted and looked like it had a miniature door on one side. My dad would say a leprechaun lived in it. In any season, we would gingerly tiptoe around the stump's base and he'd shout, "Did you see that?" He'd then say in his best leprechaun voice, "Hellooooo Heather." I so wanted to believe we had a tiny, magical imp living on our farm. I treasured that stump and the sweet memories it conjured up for me--year after year, summer, fall, winter and spring.

Springtime is truly magical in Arkansas. It's a breathtaking time where nature opens its arms widely and warmly to embrace us and beckon us out and about to enjoy all the beauty that abounds. Opportunities for family fun abound as well. Whether you're interested in St. Patrick's Day events, the arts or the parks, museums or spectacular spring break destinations, Little Rock Family's March 2015 issue has it all lined out for you.

We're also highlighting family faith building programs, featuring the diverse and heart-driven work of Mark and Linda DeYmaz, resources for physical and mental health, tips for launching into middle school and much, much more.

Spring forward with us this month! Pick up a March 2015 edition of Little Rock Family, on newsstands now. Or, flip through the free digital edition here.