Pack it all

Welcome April, I am glad you are here, even with all the uncertainty you bring. The forecasters predict with entertaining smiles the blustery days and the downpours and the extremes, almost with gladness when we hit a record. But, I work outside. What do I wear, how do I dress with all the multiple possibities on the horizon? There is a small percentage of rain, so I packed a rain jacket and a hat. There is a chance it will break 70 degrees today, so I dressed in layers that can be removed, starting with a down vest. The ground will be wet, so it is a day for Bean boots. Before work I am (currently) attending a writer’s workshop, so I put on some earrings and a somewhat pretty shirt to be presentable…not my typical flannel. I’ll be gone for the day, so I packed a lunch and a microwaved baked oatmeal square to eat on the way. (Thanks Mom for the recipe and the nudge to keep my freezer packed with those for rushed mornings).

My advice to myself is, pack it all, always. Tote that oversized bag filled with tissues and hats and bug spray and suncreen, the extra sweatshirt, the protein snack in case of a blood sugar drop, an extra charged battery and my backup pruners, daily log notebook, rain and wind gear and a couple extra pairs of gloves. I’m sure I have forgotten something, but by season’s end that ridiculously heavy bag that I carry to my car every morning will have proven to be a workhorse because it contains all the things I think I may need. Bring it on, weatherman…I am packed and ready for what April throws at me!