Sure Signs

Despite the stubborn piles of snirt (you know, snow + dirt) that litter my neighborhood and the fact that the official first day of spring isn't until next week, I have decided based on some pretty solid evidence that the blessed season is upon us.  Our backyard is once again brimming with squirrels, rabbits and birds, including the pair of cardinals that nest in a tree near our window.  We have gone on long walks or to the park (or both!) every day but one this week wearing shocking things like sweaters and jackets while our heavy winter coats collect dust in the closet.  And, in case you needed further convincing, I saw the first two mosquitos of the season buzzing around my back door yesterday.  


Finally released from his indoor prison of the last three and a half months, Asher has been running around on the very soggy grass like a wild man, shrieking with laughter, and Simon has been happily watching birds fly overhead and getting his first real tastes of sticks and bark.  I, with the help of the spring breeze coming in through my open windows, have actually managed to find the motivation to get dressed every day.  


Bless you spring!  And down with long, cold midwestern winters!  I feel like I finally understand how my mother, who grew up in southern California, must have felt living in Utah during the winter.  When I was a kid, I never understood how she could detest the winter months with such enthusiasm, but oh, how much sense it makes now.  But enough of that.  Winter is ending and I fully intend not to think about it again until November, which is far, far,  far away.