'When robins appear, loved ones are near'
It was only relatively recently that I heard this for the first time. I was already in my seventies, and my father-in-law had just passed.

   He was a keen gardener and my wife and I decided to join the two sentiments - gardener and loved one. 
   Their appearance is also assurance that they are at peace. They are also said to signify a new chapter in life for the living and a symbol of spring.
   There is sadness, regret, joy and renewal in the story that follows but if a robin visits you soon after, I will leave you to decide whose spirit it might be...

John - Author