February thaw

A thaw in February comes too soon.
We are not ready, still burrowing into blankets,
Bringing in wood now seasoned,
Planning stews and casseroles.
We have not finished winter's duties,
Wondering at snowflakes,
Walking carefully icebound,
Admiring the pines, laden with white.
Schools have not closed,
Children have not tumbled from sleds,
It is too soon, too soon, to relax
Our guard against the icy winds of winter
Too soon to welcome the temptations of spring.