We have been enjoying what I suppose is considered a mid-winter thaw. The snow cover that has largely been present for months has melted over ever enlarging patches revealing bare ground with grass and sometimes matted leaves underneath. Edges of fields and roadways are streaked with muddy ribbons of dirty snow thrown up by removal efforts. A hint of spring to come. A tease, perhaps. I realize we have something like six more weeks of winter, but I can’t help but be aware that we are at least headed toward spring.
Lesley remains steadfast in her belief that the weather outside is terrible although she has admitted to the sunshine being nice and the warmer temperatures surprisingly comfortable after the below-zero weather we had been dealing with. The Amish market is nearing completion I think, and they appear to be constructing a new sign at the edge of the village to announce its presence. We are eager for the opening. Honey, cheeses, baked goods, locally grown meat, and in-season vegetables. What’s not to look forward to? I have enjoyed catching an occasional glimpse of one of their carriages or buggies going by even during the coldest period. I have to admire their fortitude.
So, village life goes on and, while I can’t say the muddy season—as I think of it—is pretty in all aspects, it is a harbinger of spring, which I’m sure we will enjoy all the more for having endured the winter. Better not get in a hurry though. Temperatures are going down again, and rain and sleet are in the forecast for next week. Meantime, the leftover split pea soup I made is all the more appealing, and I can spend some time getting set for the many projects now lined up for the summer. I actually took advantage of the soft ground, went outside and dug up some yucca plants that threatened to overtake everything in their vicinity.
As to writing, I was feeling pretty good about the start I had made on my next novel when Lesley pointed out that it was too similar to a previous mystery I had written. I’m redoing the beginning, but that’s not as much fun as forging ahead. I still like the idea of taking Bobby to Cape Cod for his latest adventure, though. I must make sure I save some time to go there myself for some refresher research. I’m looking forward to that. The Cape has fantastic light conditions–one of the things I have also enjoyed about the winter snow-covered landscape. There are attractive villages up and down the Cape, and there is great food to be enjoyed. What more could I ask for?
I realize, many people flock to Florida this time of year to get away from the winter. Understandable, we can all enjoy a getaway on occasion. Where is your favorite place to get away to and what do you look forward to most when you go there?
Before the Thaw
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