Temperatures have become decidedly milder over the past couple of days.  The ice-covered snow that’s been with us for nearly two weeks has finally begun to retreat.  While I know this isn’t the last snowfall we’ll see this season, it feels good to see all that white stuff melting. 

Usually when we get a storm—anything from a few inches to a couple of feet or more—within a day sidewalks are shoveled and roads are clear.  This last storm added layers of snow and freezing rain to make a hard-crusted hazard.  Surfaces iced over even after the snow was removed when what remained melted and froze again. 

Slowly but surely, the ice and snow are melting, leaving puddles and water-filled potholes in their wake.  Another sign of impending spring.  Warmer days and sunshine will help with them, too. 

Today, I thoroughly enjoyed running errands, driving around for the second day this week with the car’s window rolled halfway down to let in some fresh air.  When I got home, I did a bit of snow shoveling now that I could break through its surface, though it’s still a couple of feet deep in the yard and much deeper where it was piled to clear the stairs and driveway.  Even so, it won’t be long now until I can get back out in the garden and get some real work done. 

Until then, I’ll keep watch for the first signs of spring:  the blooming of the witch hazel tree and the appearance of snowdrops from beneath the retreating snow.  It won’t be long now.

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