The cloudless sky. A somewhat warm southerly breeze kicked up the roadside leaves up and over the snowbanks. The dog sniffing where deer had crossed the road and into another stand of woods (tracks present down in the gully). The salted road white while waiting for rain to wash it away.

Oh, it seemed so close to spring on Monday afternoon as I took our dog for a walk after work. Coat, gloves and knitted cap were worn, yes, but at least my face wasn’t teetering on frostbite, like a few days before.

However, reality set in as the weather forecasters said Tuesday into Wednesday was going to be another reminder that winter is continuing, with more snow. Three to six inches, they said.

Right about now, everyone I’ve talked to is ready for spring. Maybe the mid-30s this coming weekend (“they” say) will be another teaser of springtime. Let’s hope so.

This has been a “too long” stretch, with little melting and mornings of single digit temps. A slow climb toward spring but afternoons like Monday give us hope.

Count the days but keep that shovel handy. We know February and March can be counted upon for a mix of winter and spring … let’s hope for the latter!