Slimy is not a term applied to anything in a positive light. In the pantheon of pejoratives, it is only slightly better than being identified as totally disgusting.

When applied to people it serves as a verbal warning that something bad is likely to occur. It is indicative of deceitful and dishonest qualities that are covered by a slick exterior.

On the still days after late winter cold fronts pass through north Florida, the silence beyond suburbia can be thunderous.

Only the occasional puff of wind in the pines and the crunch of dried leaves underfoot shatters the quiet.

The lengthening days and cold fronts with lessening intensity are speeding up the activity of many plants, animals and fungi as spring approaches.

During this period of mostly moderate temperatures, the installation of ornamental plants and vegetable gardens is a popular activity. Garden centers are offering a variety of tender starter plants which are easily transplanted.

The subdued browns, greens and grays of the forest are beginning to return to the brilliant pallet familiar to residents who venture beyond their front door. In the last days of February, the slow progression of woodland colors is shifting as spring approaches.

Many plants, trees and fungi are not reflecting the awareness of the coming warm days.

As February closes in on March, some are asking the age old question: “Is spring here?”

A few moderately warm days will stimulate interest in the topic for a variety of reasons.

The covers feel really great on cold February mornings, especially when it is time to get up and go.

Warm and secure, there is the impulse to remain in bed for an extended time and delay the thermal shock of the world beyond blankets and quilts. Most residents of the area however must rise and, hopefully, shine.

The botanical pause of winter is monotonous in its consistency. Each day, with very few exceptions, is just like the one before it with plants in suspended animation.

February brings the first inkling of the burst of activity coming to Santa Rosa County which will soon arrive with vigorous growth and riotous color. One herald for the landscape’s eruption is the awakening of thistles, native weeds entwined with many cultures reaching into antiquity.

North Florida in January can be cold, as recent weeks have demonstrated. However, by the standards of latitudes farther north in the United States (and Canada), the month can be considered quite balmy.

As such, those who reside in the seasonally frozen geographic regions are inclined to visit this state when circumstances allow.

The effects of January’s cold weather in Santa Rosa County have many characteristics.

In addition to the realistic possibility of the occasional subfreezing thermometer readings and frosts, there is the quiet.

A reputation for strength, durability and the ability to endure the harshest of condition is admirable and enviable.

Very few humans (and usually not the celluloid heroes of the silver screen) have the grit and determination to earn this standing or status in the course of their existence. A few notable personages in nautical history have risen to display the aforementioned character traits.