Just add seasoning

Today it's sunny and 45 degrees. What a contrast compared to 3 weeks ago. It isn't uncommon for our area to get a storm with several inches of snow, shortly after groundhog day. I remember this because, whatever the groundhog predicted, I would hear comments from friends and neighbors and TV meteorologists about how the groundhog was correct or way off in his prediction, depending on how he had ruled a few days earlier. This year, considering he saw his shadow and therefore folklore says we would have six more weeks of bad weather, the rodent was applauded, though begrudgingly, for calling it right.

Here in Indiana we got 3 storms in less than a week. Each storm brought several inches of snow. By the end of that week we had about 18" of snow on the ground. Some areas drifted with some high winds that came in a couple days later, making the snow banks 2-3 feet high. Temperatures have been below normal for this time of year and would not rise above freezing, so the snow has just been sitting here for weeks.

Today, snow on flat ground has melted away. Only the silos of snow, where it was pitched with a shovel, remain. For the first time in many weeks, we see more soil, brown grass, sidewalks and parking lot black tops, than we do of the white blanket. A few bright green caps of crocus, tulips, daffodils and hyacinths are just starting to emerge above ground.

I don't intend to sound as though I'm complaining about winter. I've always thought the phrase...it's been a long winter...is a dumb comment to make. Living in Indiana and the upper-Midwest we can expect cold temperatures and the possibility of ice, snow, freezing rain or a mixture, anytime between late October through April. The calendar is pretty much the same each year with four seasons that usually begin and end about the same time every year. So, how can a winter season be longer than the last one or the winter of 5 years ago?

No, what they actually mean is...they've had enough of the cold weather & precipitation that accompanies winter. They have had enough of shoveling, hazardous roads & slower driving and heating bills. They are anxious for more sun, lighter weight coats or jackets, and no impaired routes to work or play.

No, don't read this as a complaint. But, an observation. While I can't say I look forward to winter each year, I don't mind it. It is a season that brings a dramatic, temporary change to our lifestyle & environment. It brings variety to life for several weeks each year.

And then spring.