After a week in sunny (though not very warm) Florida, we have returned to the Midwest winter, with its frozen ground, biting wind and brown landscape. It's been a long, ugly winter in Missouri, offering severe cold but little snow. Even those of us who appreciate the varied seasons are ready for an early spring.
There are, of course, signs that the tide has turned. Birdsong has increased substantially since we left for the south and my morning walk to the University is no longer shrouded in darkness. But the early bulb plants remain suppressed by the frigid nights and the frozen ponds won't ring with the song of tree frogs until we enjoy longer periods of warmth.
Not that our sentiments are of any concern to Mother Nature. She will bide her time as we focus on our calendar, counting the days to the equinox. A flock of snow geese, calling in the night, is what my soul could use about now.
