spring is in the air | seeking querencia

Image by ViaMoi via Flickr

Today the high temperature is hovering somewhere in the 30’s. Now, I realize that this is winter, but for goodness sakes, this is Austin, Texas, and just two days ago it was a balmy 80 degrees! I know, I know, get over it, right? But, I am a southern girl and I prefer cold weather as much as a visit to the gynecologist. I tolerate it. Although, I don’t complain as much about going to the gyne, so, go figure.

In actuality, it’s Spring that I am looking forward to–renewal and all, and as Charles Dickens referred to as the “spring of hope.” As of yet, I’ve been unable to discern the origin of the phrase, but “spring is in the air” is oh so accurate. You can sense its coming as surely as you can a coming rain. There is an energy in the air that is palpable, electric, and yes, hopeful. The signs of Spring are not only in the air, but in the earth, as the season’s buds reach towards the sun, after a long winter’s nap, and in nature itself as, among other things, the swift and beautiful hummingbirds return seeking that sweet nectar to sate their thirst, and the myriad insects, those welcome and unwelcome, arise from their slumber to perform their role in the rites of Spring.

Yes, I long for Spring but I must also keep in mind that