Late January brought some unusually wintry conditions to our part of the country. Last week, the online weather guy warned folks to be on the alert for “fake spring,” an expression new to me.
It first made me think of another term, “January thaw,” a common occurrence in more northern climes. But winter hasn’t really been a thing here, at least not since we arrived in 2018. Most years, it frosts regularly from mid-November through mid-March, and during some December and January nights the temperatures dip into the low teens or single digits. Usually, the days warm to above freezing, and standing water remains liquid with an occasional crust of ice. Until this year, we’ve seen either no snow or a couple of light dustings that melt as soon as the sun hits them.
This winter has been different, with our first measurable snowfall on Veterans’ Day and another at the end of January. The weather warmed slowly afterwards, extending by a handful the days available for sledding—and slipping around on icy roads. Many of the drivers around here are not used to such conditions, so I’m glad the schools closed during that time.
After the last storm, temps rose into the mid-sixties, and eager little daffodil shoots began poking their snouts up through the fallen leaves. They likely will exercise restraint for another week or two before showing their colors. Fake spring is, I believe, a term used to remind people that they can expect more cold weather before Old Man Winter is done with us.
When “real spring” arrives, we’ll be surrounded with budding trees, greening grasses, and a riot of colorful flowers. Real spring signals new beginnings, as we turn the soil and prepare to plant the garden.
I can’t help but make a comparison to the wider situation that currently surrounds us. Recent shifts in the socio-political landscape provide glimmers of hope, but it’s too early to bank on. It’s a fake spring that shimmers enticingly and provides encouragement to keep moving forward as we visualize a fresh start.
When real spring makes its genuine debut, no matter the season, I plan to be ready for the hard work of helping to create a new and better society.
Image created with Microsoft Copilot (AI‑generated)
#civicduty #CivicResponsibility #civicengagement
Add comment
Comments