Theoretically, it's still winter, but you wouldn't know it from stepping outside. Much of the Midwest and East Coast are experiencing unusually warm weather – and it's not going to break any time soon.

It's odd to go outside in February and decide that you don't need a coat, or even a sweater. While it's very pleasant to be outside in this weather, there are some concerns. First, the warm weather is confusing plants. Some perennials think it's spring already and they are beginning to come up. Trees are beginning to bud. While an early spring is lovely, if we get back to normal winter weather, anything blossoming or budding could die, leaving us with a real spring bereft of green.

On a less ecological level, the warmth just doesn't feel right. I live by the rhythm of the seasons — meteorological and liturgical. Next Wednesday (March 1st) is Ash Wednesday. Lent is supposed to start in winter and only gradually develop into spring as Easter draws near. I'm not sure how to deal with a Lent that begins in spring. I feel like I'm ready to celebrate Easter, but Lent hasn't even begun.

To be honest, I'm not finished with winter yet. I have winter projects I'd like to finish, recorded movies I want to watch, books I want to read, hot chocolate I want to drink. I'm not ready for spring cleaning and planting and outdoor living.

It's too soon.