Happy Vernal Equinox?

I missed a day, but it was the last day of winter and thus no big loss. Today is officially the first day of spring, but I'd never guess it was from this gray sky and this cold air. Chimneys are scenting the evening with wood smoke, and the camellias have turned their faces to the ground. The birds have made themselves scarce. It's expected to be cold and cloudy all week, and beyond, with periods of rain. Maybe the tilt of earth's axis has changed, and March is to be the new January.

Last night I heard swans flying over the town, and they were flying south. They must know something we don't. Watch out, Canada!

All I really want is a warm day. So, apparently, does Portia, who refuses to leave my lap. She didn't even go wandering about when I let her outside this afternoon. She perched atop the water heater int he garage, and came back indoors the next time I opened the door. I think I'm going to have to turn the thermostat up. Then she'll lie down next to one of the floor vents and I'll be able to get up and walk around without suffering extreme cat disapproval.

It's a good day for baking my sweet potato, though. Mmmm, sweet potato.