by Christopher Miller
If you were like me on Sunday afternoon, you might have stepped out of your house and realized it was a bit warmer than usual. Warmer, considering the past weekend was another Arctic Blast. Temperatures in the mid-30’s were a pleasant surprise. Pleasant enough to make me believe Spring was around the corner.
Perhaps the lights will be on the groundhog just right as to not cast a shadow this year!
Backing up to last Sunday, I was enjoying some much needed time in the garage doing some general clean up and hooking up my old stereo (a dream of mine to have a garage space where I can rock out while I build projects).
I was in and out of the garage all afternoon as if it were a Spring day.
With 44 days left until the official first day of Spring, let’s look at some of the favorite Spring activities that may have us dreaming of life outside of a frozen, winter wonderland.
Baseball Season
An another unfortunate casualty to the COVID crisis may very well be the start of spring training and the 2021 season. On Sunday, Major League Baseball proposed a one month delay to the start of spring training and the 2021 season. Currently the season is scheduled to begin April 1, with spring training within only a matter of weeks.
Little League
A few days ago a post was made on the Lock Haven/Flemington Little League Facebook Group reminding people that registration is open, and to see “below posts” on ways to register. It is very hopeful to see this and that some form of normalcy may come to local sporting events.
Conservation District Seedling Sale
The 2021 Tree Sale is currently underway. If you haven’t purchased seedlings before, I recommend trying it this year. My wife and I are feeling adventurous with our green thumbs and considering purchasing a bundle of White Flowering Dogwoods and Sugar Maple trees. Information for purchasing can be found on the Clinton County Government website under the “Conservation District” department.
Chickens
Pretty soon you will be able to order your chicks from Tractor Supply and Calico Creek! I received an email from one of my favorite ranch and home stores out west – Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply – saying that they are taking pre-orders for chicks. The funny thing is, that store is based in central Montana and even they are seeing warmer temperatures and a more mild winter than we are!
Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras/Fasnacht Day/Lent
Gear up for the perfect storm of sorts! The week of Valentine’s Day, which so happens to be on a Sunday this year (a perfect day for a Saint) will usher in a perfect storm…
Sunday, February 14 – Valentine’s Day
Tuesday, February 16 – Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras/Fasnacht Day
Wednesday, February 17 – Lenten Fasting begins
Thursday, February 18 – my wife’s birthday
Friday, February 19 – Fish Friday
Could this week be any more chaotic for our local restaurants?
Traditionally, I see the beginning of Lent as the end of Winter. I am also hoping that this year we see an early end to the snowfall and the beginnings of an early Spring.
Only time will tell if we will have 6 more weeks of Winter, or an early Spring.
What say you, groundhog?
