February 1st Bangor Gets Postcard From Spring

For at least 20 years now, I have walked in the mornings here in Bangor, but I can think of few firsts of February that I have taken to the streets without boots.  As I sit here in my office, I can see that a few clouds have rolled in still the temps are expected to rise to the upper 40s today.

And I am so glad that I went out today. When I hit the sidewalk at 6:45 a.m., it was 40 degrees and the sun was just over the horizon. Although I took my grippers out of habit, I slipped on just sneakers and no boots with optimism.

As I walked along listening to my audio book, I was greeted by many birds like the cardinal above heralding the sun and warmth while strolling through puddles that were not too long ago ice patches. It was so great not to face each breeze like an adversary about to give me a punch but to feel the warm, soft caress that puts a smile on your face and a little more spring in your step.

Encouraged even more by the patches of green grass and the opportunistic buds on the rhododendron, which I hope they don't pay for when it turns cold again, although I am sure it will.  Hey, it is Maine and only February 1, still the whole experience felt like a postcard from Spring saying "hello again" and "not to worry I'll be home soon."

Nice to hear from you Spring.  Hurry home, I'll be waiting.