Body: Storms.

Diary: Phenology: March 12 - 18, 2009

In the last week, I have noticed a sudden multitude of singing birds. At first I thought that they were exclusive to the Magic Hedge on Lake Michigan, but then yesterday I noticed them on my walk to the El.

I have noticed that tree branches are suddenly heavy with buds, so much so that they hang lower than before.

I have noticed that the grass now seems brown and green, whereas before it was simply brown.

I have seen all of the ice melt from the lake except for a couple isolated inlets.

Body: Stratus

Event: Happy Birthday, John McCain.

What is on its way?

And will we be ready if it arrives?

Diary: The Dog Days. The Fourth of July. Other adventures.

Yesterday was the first of the dog days, by the Old Farmers Almanac's definition: The 40 days between July 3rd and August 11th coinciding with the heliacal rising of Sirius, the dog star. Sirius does not rise at this time anymore, due to the precession of the equinoxes. The period marks out the hottest days of the summer, although so far this summer has been uncommonly cool.

Yesterday I stayed in from the Chicago fireworks. I was a little too tired and worn out from the excitement of the last few weeks. Today I'm going camping in the upper peninsula with Sam and some friends. I'll be back in the city on Sunday.