Not yet St Patty’s,

But above average temps for a week

After a month long frozen-slump hacky (lung) sac stretch

Leads to smiley faces and hopeful endeavors and optimistic beginnings.

A red headed woodpecker builds a nest high just above a crotch in the neighbor’s maple.

Flashy cardinals chirp and fly horny.

Trees are still spread wide and winter stick naked

Though buds form on twigs nearest the sun,

Readying to burst forth renewal

And the validation spring promises.