Minnesota Seasons and Weather

Day 7 of 30 Days of Thankful.

Today was one of those perfect fall days that if you could order up, you'd order a dozen. Through my ear to ear smile as I was puttering around in the garage I realized how thankful I am for our four distinct seasons that set the scene for Minnesota living.

Winter: The sharp white canvas of snow highlights all the color of the holidays while the long cold march toward March provides the perfect excuse for catching up on reading, movies, red wine, board games... or skiing/ snowboarding/ snowshoeing if that that's your thing.

Spring: Longer days give way to melting snow and as the air warms the damp smell of spring hits the air and people emerge from their hibernation. Signs of life return to the landscape in the form of crocuses, daffodils, and tulips. By the time the lilacs bloom you know summer is just around the corner.

Summer: As the temperature rises the smell of spring subsides and is replaced by the smells of summer; storms, grills and fresh cut grass. The dry skin of winter becomes supple again with liberal application of bug spray and sunscreen. Boats and bikes abound and outdoor seating is a premium worth the wait list. Invariably the summer heat and humidity get to a point where you pray for the relief that only a change in seasons can deliver--enter fall.

Fall: The heat breaks and the fall breezes swish away the summer haze and begin to rustle the leaves. Deep green canopies slowly change to jeweled tones of red, gold and orange. The days get shorter and cool fall evenings scented with bonfires and apple cider are lit by the glow of jack-o-lanterns and you squeeze out every last bit of each outdoor moment knowing the winter veil will soon descend.

I'm thankful for the distinct seasons and temperate weather that serves as the backdrop for the multitude of activities that make up Minnesota; I truly believe that the extremes are key to our appreciation of the those perfect blue-bird days.

...Not mention the weather is our universal conversation starter for those awkward, repressed elevator and waiting line pleasantries.