This year has been my first experience of the seasons in SL, and CDS. While many places instantly vaporized the holiday decorations and snow, not unlike the local mall, CDS has followed a much more natural, if frustrating path. I like it
I confess, a long winter and a begrudging spring, often make me run away for the weekend to a warmer climate. Whether that means descending from the mountaintop in NFS to tend a vineyard in LA, or venturing outside of CDS (only for shopping, I'll be right back!), this is part of what makes CDS interesting, and special.
To me, what has made the transition tolerable, and even pleasant, is Delia's weather forecasting (and incredible 100% accuracy!). I have enjoyed our tip-toes into spring. My birch tree forest in NFS has shed its snow but the leaves aren't showing yet. Plants and grasses are still brown, not yet turning green; I don't quite see any flowers yet. The reindeer long ago took flight. Other places in SL, that have already "switched on" full spring and summer modes seem well out of step for CDS, certainly for the elevated regions. If anything, I wish my seasonal trees and grasses offered further granularity, such as budding, instead of bare to full spring colors.
Under Delia's care, I trust that we know "sometime in the middle of February the snows begin to melt" and "sometime at the end of November leaves begin to turn color". Essential to our understanding, are her forecasts and reports.
Landscaping is indeed artistry. It may be unpredictable at times, but nature often is. Let's enjoy the journey.