Apr 11 2023

A Breath of Spring in the Air

In the North, we really appreciate the coming of spring. It’s such a relief to go outside without bundling up in that lengthy process of:

  • Warm underwear (in the old days, called ‘Long Johns’). Today, it’s generally undershirts, leggings under outer pants – or, if you are flush with cash, CuddleDuds (thin long garments that replace the bulkier layers).
  • Thick socks, followed by boots or heavy-duty shoes. Must have some tread, lest we tumble in the snow and ice.
  • Heavy pants – Except for the most religiously-compliant, whose normal wear includes skirts and dresses, it’s pants from November to April.
  • Tops – AFTER the warm underwear, a shirt or turtleneck, followed by a cotton or wool shirt, and a sweater or sweatshirt.
  • Scarf – NOT a fashion item, but a way to seal out the cold from sweeping down one’s neck. Preferably wool, but a good manmade fabric will do. Placed UNDER the coat.
  • Coat – must zip AND snap/button – it does not pay to leave gaps for the invading freezing air.
  • Hat, covering the ears, or hat AND earmuffs/earband.
  • Gloves/mittens. If shoveling, should be waterproof. If driving, should have some way to grip the wheel. You’ll be on the road for some time before the wheel thaws sufficiently to take them off (if then).
  • Perhaps another scarf?

Oh, did I mention that you needed to go to the bathroom FIRST?

But, today, and for the last few days, it’s spring in the North. Oh, not spring as the South knows it – with actual warm air and little need for coats and gloves. You can still see your breath in the air before the sun comes up. If there is rain, it still might make the roads slick with slushy ice.

But, we can see the jonquils and crocuses – sometimes, bursting out through the white patches of snow. Those who planted peas in February will note that the vines are jumping out of the ground. It doesn’t take as long to get dressed to take the dog out for a quick pee.

And, you will likely only have to run the defroster for a short time before clearing the windshields. I still, however, use my butt-warmers in the car.

So, too, our long national political winter is seeing some signs of thawing at the local levels. There’s still a war going on in politics and the culture, but we’re seeing some sporadic pushback efforts.

So, take heart, enjoy the temporary lull, rest, prep, and restore your spirit. The next offensives will be coming, never fear, but – for now – enjoy the milder weather.