Spring?

Today, by the way, is the vernal equinox.

Not very vernal here.

Spring springing?

At this time of year I am often looking out for the first signs of Spring, so far, of course, without luck. But I wondered when it officially begins. Most Italians would say that February is winter, March is Spring. So do we celebrate it on 1st March?

Some people go by the solstices and equinoxes. This would mean that Spring ran from 21st March to 21st June but that seems a little late. Indeed these are supposed to be the mid point of the season. But that would mean Spring began on about 4th February, which seems a little early.

St Valentine’s Day, which was chosen for when birds mate? When you see some particular flora – for example almond blossom?

Anyhow, it’s not yet.

Spring

The first signs of spring are with us: almond blossom, crocuses, the occasional house fly and the warning that the weather, having got warmer, is about to get colder again. Hey-ho.

The first braod beans are here. The Italians eat them raw, with slivers of pecorino (sheep's cheese).