A few weeks ago, I woke early startled by a raging windstorm that kicked up with enough might to drag furniture across the patio. In the weeks that followed, thunder cracked and rainstorms broke with sudden fury until the sun decided to shine. I am amazed at the sudden shifts in weather that cause strong wind tunnels in our Northern Virginia community.
These constant weather changes bring back thoughts on winter's embrace this year. It has had a sprinter-stance presence causing a "little winter" during springtime. Did you know that there is such a term? I did not, so I did some research. According to the Urban Dictionary, sprinter is the time in late winter/early spring when a few days feels like spring and then winter sneaks in again.
The Farmer's Almanac defines "little winter" as a dogwood winter in the middle of spring. I found that term appropriate since dogwood trees are just starting to bud in my neighborhood. Having spring-like weather in winter excited me enough to plant early. Was I naive with an optimistic frame of mind? Mother Nature's sudden pattern change made me realize that she enjoys stirring the pot and mixing her seasons.
A sprinter! I love it....Little Winter is more my language speed. But, the idea of a quick run of winter inside of spring is perfect language. Your digital art is lovely....I'm fond of the dogwoods. The season of blooming is always too short for me.
ReplyDeleteLinda, I first heard the word sprinter on GMA. I knew I had to investigate more since the weather is so up and down here (maybe it is the same in NY but no one is telling me this). On one of my walks around the community, I see a few dogwood trees that are beautiful. We are on our way to pick out annuals for my gardens that were just finished last weekend. Have a blooming great day.
DeleteCarol, thanks for including my piece. “Sprinter” is a new word for me but it certainly fits the weather pattern.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your poem with me, Bob. It is a great example of a sprinter phase of weather conditions. Is this one of your sijo poems? It is supposed to be warmer today so I am off to the nursery to pick out annuals for our newly created gardens. Enjoy the weekend.
DeleteDear Carol, I am kind of in love with "dogwood winter," both the photo and the words. Thank you!! And I do hope you enjoy D-39 (in which spring is called greenseason!). xo
ReplyDeleteIrene, I am looking forward to reading your new book and finding out about the greenseason. Little winter is called other names other than dogwood winter but this term is applicable to Virginia now that the dogwood trees are starting to bloom. Even though my allergies are kicking up, I am enjoying living here with my little granddaughters near by.
DeleteThanks for sharing my response to your "sprinter", Carol, a term I've not heard of but along with dogwood winter, will remember that term. It is a delight to discover the creativity of people describing their weather & seasons. I guess that means so many of us are "outside" & no matter what, love the weather! I also love "Lay me down to sleep
ReplyDeleteWhile Spring plays hide 'n seek". Happy weekend!
I always love sharing your work, Linda. It is always representative of an optimistic frame of mind, I am glad that you are able to experience spring in Denver now. Yes, I agree we like the outside and finding the beauty in each other's landscapes.
DeleteWe have definitely experienced Dogwood Winter this year!
ReplyDeleteIt seems that many have, Mary Lee. Enjoy warm spring days this week.
DeleteI think we're finally in spring where I live, though I hope I'm not jinxing it by saying so. I hope our flowers get all the warmth they need.
ReplyDeleteSpring in Syracuse is a glorious event that I remember well from my childhood days. Smelling the lilacs, blowing wish kisses in the wind bring back smiles. I hope the weather keeps on smiling down on you, Janice.
DeleteThanks for the little tutorial on sprinter. Your line "When spring plays hide and seek" says it all.
ReplyDeleteOur hide and seek moments are visible each day. I stepped out into sunshine this morning only to feel the cool air. Maybe this afternoon will find its warmth as I plant marigolds in my new garden. May your spring day bring you warmth, Margaret.
DeleteI love your April Sprinter poem - (I did not know about that term!) - it perfectly captures the feeling of the unexpected cold snap that has you pulling out the winter coats again.
ReplyDeleteSprinter, dogwood winter, little winter ... I didn't know these terms (and now love them) but I've known the fickle weather of Nebraska and now I can put voice to the experience. :) Thanks, Carol!
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