Late Winter

This time of year, one day can be warm and spring-like, and the next can be icy cold.  Today was clear, but with decreasing temperature and a biting, gusty wind.  Beautiful to look at, but a shock to be out in.  On the walk home tonight, I saw the first pink buds atop a magnolia tree.

In just a few days, though, it will be in the 70s.  Then, as each week passes, the chances of wintry weather diminish.  The cherry blossoms and daffodils will splash color across the bare landscape, and then the trees will begin to green.

Late winter will slide into early spring - there's no way to tell exactly when that happens.  But one day, I'll walk outside and know that winter is gone - until next year.