Spring
Nathan Schmidt
I am aware that, thanks to Punxsutawney Phil, spring started a few weeks ago. It really hit me yesterday, though. I was outside helping unloading stuff from my dad's car when I realized that it really wasn't so cold anymore. The grass is not yet a vibrant green. There was still a cold wind that would bring mild discomfort from time to time. From a distance, the trees still appear to be hibernating. In the middle of the driveway, though, a ladybug was walking slowly towards the grass. The sun was shining brightly, bringing warmth between the bursts of wind, and though they might look dead from a distance, the leaves on the trees are starting to grow.
I approached a tree in my yard and looked at the long, thin branches. I could see the light green leaves just starting to bud out. They still have a ways to go, sure, but they will get there soon. A feeling suddenly rushed over me. The feeling that spring weather is on its way.
This was a pretty terrible winter. There is no secret about that. We had maybe five inches of snow total spread out through the course of three months. We did not have a single snow day, two-hour delay, or early dismissal. Some people despise the snow, but in my opinion, a cold, snowy winter is much better than a cold winter with no snow at all. Perhaps this is why I was so excited for the spring weather. I usually enjoy winter, but this year's winter has made me long for spring like never before. I am ready for hot days, pool parties, beaches, and late-night activities with friends. I know that these things are usually associated with summer, but the budding leaves, the ladybug, and the hot sun were all signs to me that those days are well on their way.
For me, it is the little things that have a big impact on me. A ladybug is just a ladybug. Budding leaves are just budding leaves. The sun is certainly not going anywhere anytime soon. Still, though, they made me feel happy. They made everything feel peaceful. All the stresses in my life, even if just for a few moments, seemed to fly away. I pulled up a chair on my porch and sat there as I did my homework. Once I finished my homework, I sat there a little while longer. I sat there looking at the blue sky and listening to the song of the birds.
Are any of you excited for spring? What is your favorite part about warmer weather? What seemingly small things make you feel happy?
I am so excited for spring. It is such a wonderful change of pace to be able to go outside without needed 5 pounds of coats just to stay warm. I usually love winter, but like you said, the lack of snow really made this winter miserable. The changing of seasons is so refreshing, and I love the freedom one feels in the transition between winter and spring. Hearing birds chirp, being able to leave the window in your bedroom open at night, and watching my dog run around happily are the small things that make me so happy. That is why I love spring. Everything feels so fresh, so warm, so new. It truly is such a pleasant season, until Allergies kick in.
ReplyDelete