Signs of spring

Forget the vernal equinox and other "official" definitions. Here are the real signs that spring is here:

• Forget the first robin. It's the first dandelion that really means spring is here.
• You see blossoms on the trees, smell their unusual odor, and suffer from their allergies.
• You finally pull out the lawn mower, but need to wear a sweater when mowing the lawn.
• You think about planting your garden, then think better of it - another day of frost is sure to come.
• You pull out white clothes not seen since Labor Day.
• You have to turn on your car's air conditioner, even though it's chilly outside, since the sun has baked your car's interior all day.
• You need to push aside one of the blankets from the bed. You don't dare put it away, since you know the temperature can drop at any time.
• You get the first juicy bug splattered on your windshield.
• There are only 8 teams still fighting for playoff spots in the NBA.
• Gas prices rise. (Also a sign that summer is here, that fall is here, and that winter is here.)

Update: Welcome, Carnival of the Vanities readers. Some of my favorite posts are here.