Springing? Lift #1

Is Spring just around the corner??

Milwaukee River - Feb. 17 and 18, 2026

“When I was small, not much bigger than a pollywog,” said Frog, my father said to me, ‘Son, this is a cold, gray day but spring is just around the corner.’”

“The Corner,” Frog & Toad All Year, by Arnold Lobel

I’m a person who struggles with depression, meaning, the cold, gray days may send a cold, gray cloud over my thoughts and energy. I wait expectantly for spring’s arrival. In anticipation, I watch for the signs…often too early. The two pictures above demonstrate my attitudes. In the one on the left, geese who had proclaimed their return, walked on the still-frozen Milwaukee River. One day later, after one of the warmest February 17ths in Milwaukee, the snow and ice have diminished, not gone, but less of them there.

It’s signs like that which become a lift for me. They fill me with hope — despite the chaotic world — and though snow and ice may return here before spring truly arrives, this glimpse will help sustain me until then.

If depression or just the doldrums hit you, what are some things that help raise your eyes and your attitude? Comment below. Would love to see some other “lifting” ideas!