I am not sure that growing up in eastern Kentucky exactly constitutes being from the south — those who hear my accent may argue otherwise — but it certainly instilled in me a much different perception of the weather and “Old Man Winter.”

I talk to friends from home all the time who, much as I was before I moved here, are completely blown away by the pictures I post on Facebook of all the snow.

It is almost impossible for them to imagine a world that doesn’t shut down when six inches of snow hits the ground.

One friend — who actually grew up near Detroit — recently told me that his recollection was that Michigan had four seasons: almost winter, winter, still winter, and construction season.

That was good for a laugh, but it certainly isn’t true of southwest Michigan where the four seasons stand out from one another very well.

When I told another person that I cleared a foot or so of snow off my sidewalk it was like I told them I was getting ready to take a trip to the moon. Snow is that uncommon just eight hours south of here and the ability to comprehend how to deal with it just isn’t there.

Although my family and I have certainly enjoyed some sleigh riding and a few other outdoor activities, just like everyone else, we are counting down the days until spring.

I probably shouldn’t jinx it but, other than the bitter cold, I think you could call this a mild winter. But that could still change with a brutal February and March.

I think that — regardless of where you are from — spring is exciting because it symbolizes new life, a new beginning and an exciting change. But to those living here the season seems to be a little extra special and quickly makes those memories of cold winter mornings fade away.

So here is to spring … hurry up already!

 

Michael Caldwell is the publisher of Leader Publications LLC. He can be reached at (269) 687-7700 or by email at mike.caldwell@leaderpub.com.