Wishing for Summer

As I write this post it is currently -5F, but feels like -18F. I much prefer winter over summer, but every time the end of winter rolls around I can't help but want warm weather again. Honestly, I think winter would be much more bearable if the sun were out longer. The increased hours of darkness kill me, and I think I throw a little party every day, in my mind, when I realize it doesn't get dark until after 6pm now. Soon it will be 7, then 8, then eventually 11! Anyways, this post came about because I went back through my archives to see when it got warm last year. It was the middle of April last year when I was wearing a dress without a jacket or sweater! We are only two months away!

While I was at Innopolis Elmira and I decided to have a photoshoot around the "city." City is in quotes because there wasn't much around. This was actually a two day affair, and I still have more pictures from inside the university, but they are much more difficult to go through and edit. Plus, who doesn't want a reminder of the warm weather? The city isn't big, so I know you've probably seen these views in previous posts. We thought we were going to have to cut this photoshoot early, but it never rained, despite the menacing clouds in the distance. A rainbow even came out to visit us (you can see it in the 5th photo).

The photo below was my "Walking Dead" inspired photo because much of the city was a ghost town. All of the apartments on the left were empty, and I think many on the right were as well. I imagine it's much busier now, though, with all the students back. I'm definitely curious to know if there are any new buildings in the city this year.

I'm looking forward to summer for several reasons. I mentioned before that I like fall and winter, but there is just something wonderful about being able to open your windows and letting your house air out. I also can't wait to not have to put on tons of layers to survive outdoors. I'm never early anymore because I always underestimate the time it takes to put on all my winter attire. The last reason I'm excited for the warm weather is because I will finally go back to the USA. I am still not sure if I will stay in Russia longer. I want to but I have school loans hovering over me like a dark cloud. If I do decide I want to try a 3rd year in Russia I will go back for a visit. Either way, I will go back this summer and I can't wait to eat Mexican food and see my family, in that order! :)

What are you most looking forward to this spring and summer?