Vehicles have been plugged in to accommodate freezing temperatures, fires have been stoked and furnaces run while the heating bills build. Because without the cold, there could be no true appreciation of spring. The message of resurrection isn't just a religious one in climates that experience a real winter. From dismal sealed windows, neighborhoods begin to open their doors, venture outside, chatter and smile. Spirits are lifted, houses cleaned out and bulbs planted.
Towns rouse themselves out of their lethargic hibernation and meet new neighbors.
Garage sales begin. Cars are washed. Fruit and vegetable stands are erected. Spring isn't just a new month for those of us parenting at home. It is a breath of rejuvenation.