Spring in the Air?

by Catherine Dilts

Here in Colorado Springs, we’re having a false spring. The temperatures are setting records. However, it’s all a lie.

Any day now, we’ll get that crushing drop in temperature, preferably combined with precipitation. Snow, please. But we’ll take whatever we can get, as long as it's wet.

Peonies and tulips think it's spring

When the weather is bonkers, the trees and bushes leaf out prematurely. Then the inevitable cold returns, causing branches to snap under the weight of ice and snow. Oh no! My peonies and tulips are emerging! Go back, before it’s too late!

The unusual weather is making writing difficult. Typically this time of year, I can accomplish impressive writing sprints because I’m still in hibernation mode, hunkered down in my writing cave. This season, I’m struggling to stay focused on my computer screen.

I do write year-round. It shouldn’t be impossible for me to be creative just because the sun is shining and the birds are singing. I do my best work sitting on the deck in the morning as the sun rises, surrounded by flowers.

It’s not the same when the trees are leafless and the flower pots bare. And a bit too chilly to sit outside in early morning temperatures of high thirties to mid-forties. Spring is the time for hummingbird feeders, but I can’t put mine out until the middle of April.

There are plenty of writing projects to keep me busy. Re-reading a Rose Creek novel final draft before submitting to critique group. Providing feedback to a friend planning to pitch to an agent. Hammering away on the outline for a new trilogy. Drafting the next Ninja-Grandparent mystery.

I have to focus my energy. I’m finally getting my books placed in stores. (Basecamp Books & Adventure, and a new "maker" shop Hidden Gems.) That will be wasted effort if I don’t continue to write books.

Hidden Gems 5020 N. Nevada Ave. Suite 120, Colorado Springs, CO 80918

I’m sharing my experience traveling with our two new family members, an English Springer Spaniel and a feisty tuxedo kitten. That’s writing, but not fiction. (See my Substack for Traveling With Pets.)

I’m reducing my gardening plans due to those new additions. But I still hope to fill my grow boxes with flowers, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and basil. I started seeds yesterday. Gardening, even a limited deck “farm,” keeps my mind busy with green dreams.

Bird Watching

Okay, so I’m not sitting idle. Listing my have-to-dos and am-doings has helped. Thanks for letting me vent. Life has been busier with a few extra challenges in the form of our puppy and kitten. They’re both napping right now.

Perfect. Peace and quiet. Time for a writing sprint.