By Sue KILPATRICK

“Sad Winter now declines…, Each bird doth choose a mate;

This day’s Saint Valentine’s” — Michael Drayton, English poet, Renaissance Period

The calendar says, “Winter”, as do the leafless trees. But, my time outdoors this past week whispered, “Spring”.  Days were filled with sunshine and temperatures on the weekend reached 80 degrees.  Nighttimes remained in the low to mid 40’s.  As we move into February, accompanied by perfect spring-like weather, it brings to mind flowers, Valentine’s Day, love and happy memories. Even if the weather wasn’t cooperating in elevating our moods, I’m certain chocolate( especially in a heart-shaped box) would do the trick! Each season and its weather can have interesting influences on our emotions.

While weather can bring out good feelings, it can just as easily make us feel down. Everyone reacts differently, but some generalizations can be made. Changes in sunlight, atmospheric pressure, temperature and other factors can suddenly affect a person’s state of mind. Rain, cold, and dreary gray skies are associated with being sad and isolated, perhaps because it prevents us from enjoying the outdoors and our normal activities.  Extremely dry air associated with Santa Anna winds make some people feel on edge. Maybe this is due to change in the pressure or in my Mom’s cause, growing up in Kansas, when the winds began to blow, survival depended on the race with a tornado to the storm cellar. And don’t forget Todo! When a storm clears and we catch a glimpse of a fleeting rainbow as the sun breaks through the clouds, a sense of calm and awe may capture our emotions. Is there anything more exhilarating than the air the morning after a rain storm? Our weather preferences may differ, but that they affect us is a given.

If you could design “the perfect weather” what would it be?  My choice would not be that of the average person. I realized this long ago watching the weatherman on T.V. He would refer to a rainy day as, “nasty”, “ugly”, “gloomy” and basically a good day to stay safe inside your house!  I say, “Bring on – lots of rain, the  Santa Anna winds, clear Autumn days, warm Summer evenings, thunderstorms, Winter’s snowcapped mountains and the blossom-scented mild days of Spring!” So far this year has my approval.

Once again, on Thursday, the CV WEEKLY will arrive to breezy conditions.  This weekend will be clear and dry with highs in the 70’s and lows in the 40’s. By Sunday night clouds will move in and remain into next week.  Expect a cooling trend also – around 60 daytime highs and low 40’s at night.  By Wednesday there is a chance of rain. Exact time, place, and amount forthcoming. Is your umbrella ready?  Valentine’s Day gift idea!

Sue Kilpatrick is a longtime CV resident and amateur weather watcher. Reach her at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.

  Sue Kilpatrick, weather