Today, was not just another Winter day. It was Michigan’s first glimpse at Spring after a harsh and horrid Winter. My boss has been out of town, so I had an opportunity to go outside when the sun was high in the sky, not neatly tucked behind the clouds on a gray and dismal early morn. The weather forecast, plus a glance out the window, told me today had all the earmarks of a glorious walk. I was ecstatic to take this long-awaited walk and I couldn’t get my shoes laced up quickly enough to set out. At first glance, the sidewalks looked clear, but as I kept walking I discovered sidewalk potholes, many which were glazed over with a thin veil of ice. To thwart a spill on these icy and dicey spots, I strayed over a few blocks where I knew the homes were larger, and the sidewalks were in better shape. It was a great decision as that street’s sidewalks were salt-stained, but otherwise clear and dry, so then I didn’t have to concentrate on my footing and could simply enjoy my walk. And enjoy it I did! Just being outside and walking, I felt as if every sense was awakened by my surroundings and I was the sponge, ready to absorb the beauty of the day. I found myself looking here, there and everywhere like the proverbial country bumpkin taking a trip to the big city for the first time. The sun was warmish and shone down on my upturned face. It felt luxurious and I resisted the urge to cast my cap into the air, à la Mary Richards, in exuberance. I was near-giddy and giggling as I heard the gurgle of water whooshing down the sewer drain, as mounds of dirty snow met the street’s slushy puddles and melded, beating a hasty retreat down the drain. The songbirds were out and I heard way more birdcalls than I hear on those cold and frosty mornings when I head out daily to run the car. It was as if the birds likewise were joyous to be basking in the sunshine. It felt good to be alive and to venture out further than my driveway, and in walking shoes, instead of lug boots as has been the case for the past three months. I really only planned to walk just a handful of blocks to risk getting shin splints, but when I found it so clear on Buckingham Street, I did another complete walk around the block surrounding Ford Park, and then another. Finally, I started to head home, and thought ‘well, perhaps one more go around’ and it seemed I just couldn’t help myself. I was glad I strapped on my pedometer because when I removed it, it read a whopping 2½ miles. I was astounded. Thank God for this day because I needed it to clear the cobwebs from my brain and it did wonders for my psyche. It was much more than merely an exercise for stretching my legs. Yup, I’m in my happy place, thinking Springy thoughts and all is right in my world again.

Winter is on my head,
but eternal spring is in my heart.
~ Victor Hugo