On March 22 I came back to Middletown for a week. It rained almost the entire time, still lots of snow on the ground when I got there, cold. March weather in New England. Berlin had been pretty well along with early spring: crocuses, snow bells, daffodils and a few fruit trees blooming. Not Middletown: what few crocuses had come up had made a mistake.

I took a walk along the Salmon River just to just stretch my legs. Nothing was up, no green shoots; but the water was high and the birds were singing, two definite but not absolute signs of spring, plus while not warm, it wasn’t freezing either. The rain made the colors really stand out, the lichens on the trees, the few things that can survive the winter.

It’s hard being in Middletown, I ruminate. Then also it’s lovely, so many wonderful friends. I’m trying to hold onto the good memories, the many accomplishments, exhibitions, teaching and all of the people, students, staff and faculty I’ve known and know there. Those are good thoughts for March.

On Friday I flew to Beijing where it is spring for sure, and I’m enjoying it mightily. All good memories, a stimulating atmosphere.

“Pics to follow.”