Today I Saw My Future. And It Is Bright!

The sun came out in Chicago today. The temperature went over 50 degrees. My kids spent the morning happily playing outside in the yard. They ran and ran. And then they ran some more. We hunted around the yard for bulbs poking their heads out of the ground to say hello. I dug the bikes out of the garage for a little spin around the block. We ate lunch out on the deck (with our coats on). I made a pitcher of lemonade. Then both of my little ones fell fast asleep because they were exhausted from their much-needed morning romp outdoors.

Those of you reading this in California or other warm, sunny locales can go ahead and have a little giggle if you want to, but for us Chicagoans -- summer is here!

Now, don't get me wrong -- I know that it is going to snow a few more times. Any experienced Midwesterner knows that by the time March gets here, the worst of the bad weather is over. But it isn't quite over, over.

But every March I can remember, a day comes along when the sun shines and the temperature is unseasonably warm. People feel good. We are reminded that Chicago actually has more than one season. The bold wear shorts (even though that is never a good idea for legs that haven't seen the sun since September). We leave our stuffy, stale houses and venture outside. The streets are full of people walking dogs and babies. Some of the bars open up their outdoor patios. Neighbors who haven't seen each other since the Christmas decorations went up get reacquainted.

A day like today keeps us going. We can endure a little bit more snow, right? Spring really is coming, and so is summer. For now, I am off to sit in my yard and soak in as much sun and warmth as I can while I dream of my summer plans (parks . . . pools . . . picnics).

Cross-posted at Chicago Moms Blog.