spring

Spring, by the calendar, may be still a few days away yet, but it has already sprung down here in Suthren Country. How do I know?

Not because the pear trees for miles around are in riotous bloom, although they are.

Not because the neighborhood kids jostle and play in the early morning daylight as they wait for the school bus, although they do.

Not because the birds on the back patio are more raucous than ever as they fight for kibble 'n bits, even if it's true.

And not just because the mud puddle by the back door will be there for at least another month before the ubiquitous summer drought sets in. (I've already given up hope of keeping the carpet clean, because no matter how many throw rugs and towels I put down, puppy negotiates around each and steps only where his paw prints will show the most.)

But because of eyes that are matted shut each morning, and the profusion of used wadded up and discarded tissues in every trash can in the house.

Into each life some pollen must fall.