This is the ring of springtime frost. When the last remnants of winter come back for one brief day in April and coat the buds in their crystalline cocoon, and you wake in the morning to see your breath condensing outdoors. One more chance to put on your slippers and sweater and sit by the fire, one last opportunity to nestle in on the couch with a book before the work of spring begins. That last spring frost, freezing away the weeds and protecting the buds, one last ride through the cold to encourage fresh growth and renewed strength. The way a steel is tempered in oil, when the frost melts away the flowers will bloom brighter and bolder than they ever could have before, while you, putting away your slippers again and bringing out the sandals, will be well rested and ready to enjoy the sun.