It was chilly Wednesday. We only reached 41 degrees as of 5 p.m. in Vancouver, which is the coldest high temperature since Jan. 1 when it was 34. The cold front slipping down the British Columbia Coast was slowly entering our area Wednesday. Sprinkles were scattered about as I wrote, but also a couple reports of snowflakes in our foothills. At 5 p.m. Wednesday it was snowing in Vancouver, British Columbia and 32 degrees with light snow in Bellingham. Spokane was 20 degrees with snow. Winter is still upon us folks. It does appear we warm a few degrees toward 50 or better by the weekend. No major weather systems heading our way, so only drips and splatters and plenty of clouds at times. Drier this weekend. By now you heard the groundhog saw his shadow Wednesday despite a cloudy forecast. Punxsutawney Phil quickly retreated to his abode as the early morning sunshine shone in his eyes and interrupted his winter sleep. Poor fellow. Six more weeks of winter he grumpily exclaims. Our weather the past four weeks has had little of the dicey winter in it and more of early spring at times. Nature may be turning over in its sleep sensing the lack of ice and snow. I can hear it now, “Oh hum, what now? Did I sleep through winter? Is this March already?”

Wintering hummingbirds are sensing the outdoor activities of humans. Buds are swelling on the trees, not good for fruit trees challenging the certain frosts yet to come. Insects are also on the groggy side, but on occasion, come out to explore the weak sunshine. I remember that 60-degree high temperature only two weeks ago on Jan. 20. We mentioned the groundhog, winter has a stronghold on the East Coast. I switch back and forth with my jackets daily it seems. Pinch yourself and remember we are still in the realms of winter and maybe only on a fugacious escapade.

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