To Spring

"It's time for Spring I say!"

Or so the lead gnome tells the others as he wakes them to start preparing for spring in the classic 1936 Happy Harmonies short "To Spring".

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Here in the warm, dry southwest corner of the United States, the passing of seasons isn't  always as prominent as it is in the rest of the country.  Actually, this year, we haven't been able to tell exactly what season it was, as we seem to have at least one week's worth of each season every month.  One week of cold, wet winter weather, followed by a week mild of mild spring/fall temperatures, followed by a week of 90 degree dry, desert heat.  The standard wardrobe divisions aren't necessary; you end up wearing the majority of your clothing year round.

I know in the rest of the country, they are eagerly looking for the bright colors the gnomes bring, because winter is refusing to go quietly.  In fact, it's decided to stay as long as it possibly can, dumping as much snow on the ground as the average winter in what should be the beginning of spring. It's still cold and gray, but there is the occasional day where it gets a little warm to give them a little hope of the beautiful days to come.  On those days, people get to see a little peek of color here; a small flower bud there; a glimpse of green on a tree branch somewhere.

Truthfully, I am ready for the colors of spring myself.  The dull gray of constant concrete reinforces the gloom of urban living, and when mixed with the drab clouds of overcast days make for a good excuse to remain indoors with a mug of warm tea and a good book.  I am ready to resume my afternoon walks around Downtown, and the flowers and trees of spring remind me that nothing remains grey forever, flowers bloom again, and all things can be made new.  I like the fact that in certain urban areas, builders sometimes paint buildings in pastel colors to make them stand out from the surrounding deadly seriousness of the other building near them.  Those structures stand out like the little beacons of hope that they are probably meant to be, in the middle of serious buildings, where likely serious business is conducted.  Walking or driving past these buildings gives me the feeling of spring year round.  Almost like the renewal associated with Spring is achievable no matter what the calendar says.

Which it is, of course.  But that's a topic for another day.  Right now, I am going to get out from behind this keyboard.   Although I'll be working, I am definitely going to enjoy the colors of the day.