Hanging by a Thread...or a Stem

"Winter lies too long in country towns; hangs on until it is stale and shabby, old and sullen."

~Willa Cather

Just when it appears safe to utter, make that whisper, the idea that spring hides right around the corner, the snow and wind team up to make an abrupt appearance, reminding us of the prediction made by our good friend and trusty pal, Punxsutawney Phil.

Tonight while the wind whistled and thumped against the windows, my knitting needles and I spent some precious time together. We knit and purled and turned and knit some more; enjoying the new creation blooming before our eyes.

Blooming. There it is. Another "springy" word "popping" into my vocabulary. I'm already excited for the daffodils and crocuses, tulips and cherry blossoms. Spring. So close, yet so far away.

I noticed the above leaf as I quickly rushed Charlie outside into the freezing nighttime air. As it twirled and danced like a ballerina on a stage of crystals, I couldn't help but to rush for my camera. I felt bad for the little guy.

What was once a beautiful green oak leaf, soaking up the golden sun and practicing photosynthesis like a mad man, has been reduced to a crispy, brown, dead leftover summer souvenir, struggling to find a safe location to peacefully rest.

It was sad to watch him as he worked to free himself from the harsh grip of the glittery ground covering. I'm happy to report that he did finally escape and fluttered off into the darkness, where, I like to think, he found a safe place to call home.

I'll admit it, I'm thinkin' spring!