right about now
in mid-February
I start dreaming of spring
the first crocus
harkening new growth
new life
the birds beginning to make their nests
in the nearby trees
for their eggs about to be laid
the trees starting to bud
with the hope
of new life
the smell of rain
in the air
even before it falls
the sky
somehow bluer
in early spring
pushing my winter coat
to the back of the closet
in favor of lighter layers
my boots muddy
at the door
from the first hike to the lake
deeper laughter
at the start of recess
as children discard their coats on the blacktop
strawberries
redder at the
roadside stand
aisles filled
with Easter candy
before winter has even passed
