Vernal equinox today. In spite of snow mixed with rain, the juncos are trilling from treetops and the song sparrow warms up his melody. Robins have been acting silly for at least a week. A prowl around the garden today reveals golden currant buds, soft melting snow, and saturated soil. A few snowdrops have emerged, and little green spikes of Iris reticulata are finding their way to the sun. There is a changeability to the weather, the quality of light, and the sensation of the air. The person who pays attention will notice that every moment is different from the one right before it and right after it. That is the essence of spring.