Spring training has begun! Can there be any surer sign that, despite the roller coaster of temperatures and precipitation variety of the past week, we can truly look forward to winter’s end? I always enjoy reading columnist George Will’s essays and books about baseball, and find that I agree with him on the topic of the lift to the spirits that those two words can bring: Spring Training! The words bring to mind the smell of grass, the need for a sunhat, and the feel of a warm breeze. I rarely get to watch live baseball games, but there is something unique and evocative about the phrase that heralds the beginning of another season. Now it’s only about four and a half weeks until the calendar catches up and we reach the equinox.

One of the things that I anticpate every spring is that sunny, warm day when I can hang a load of laundry on the clothesline and then tackle some window washing. I love the fresh scent that clings to the clothes after they have been outdoors, and the way the house seems rejuvenated by the breeze flowing through from one room to another. This year has had several January and February days that almost seemed like spring, only to be followed by days like this past weekend. Seeing the thermometer bottom out at zero degrees, I decided that the road salt and dirt on the car would have to linger a day or two more, because I was afraid I would be frozen inside my car if I tried to take it through the carwash! My windows and clothesline will have to be put off for at least a few weeks, I guess. Is it obvious that I have spent too many hours indoors lately?

There are many things happening around the valley that give us ways to keep busy, despite the sometimes-inclement weather. The high school is a hub of activity as winter sports teams are engaging in post-season games and tournaments, spring sports teams are preparing to begin their practice and competition schedules, and music and theater students are preparing for the annual musical production.

Two band members and a chorus member are preparing to compete at PMEA Regional events. Both Trey Pachucki and Rochell Temple will be representing HHS in March at Region Band and Katelyn Derby will sing at Region Chorus. All three will be auditioning for rankings that will send them to the PMEA State Conference in April. Good luck to all these fine students!

Hughesville Events:

Thurs. Feb. 18, 7 p.m. Girls Basketball playoff game at Mt. Carmel.

Fri. Feb. 19, 7 p.m. Boys Basketball playoff game at Home versus Loyalsock. Go Spartans!

Sat. Feb. 20 Moonlight Ski and Snowshoe Adventures fro 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Crystal Lake Ski Center. Open to skiers of all ages. Arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. Registration required by calling 570-584-5607. On Sunday there will be a winter triathalon and family fun race and a 6K ski event. The day will begin with a short ski run for children 12 and under. Registration required.