Dear Mother Nature

Dear Mother Nature,

I know in the past I haven’t thought the chilly, flurry-filled, blustery weather of your wintry season was all that, but my eyes have recently been opened. I really have come to appreciate the beauty in what you’ve icily kissed these past few months and enjoyed getting to know you in your frosty loveliness.

But I’ve about had it with your friend Old Man Winter. Have your way with him one final time if you must, but then send him packin'.  Wouldn’t you rather fraternize with Mars, the Roman god of spring? I know he’s no Adonis, but …

According to the calendar we’ve got another 22 days until the vernal equinox, but do you think you could do something to speed the transition along? You remember the thaw with which you taunted us in January, don’t you? Sun, warm temps, melting snow. More along those lines … soon!

Thank you, Ma'am!