One of my oldest friends once told me, “Cathy, you’re the only person I know who gets Seasonal Affective Disorder 15 minutes after the sun goes behind the clouds.”
She was not wrong. I do love a chilly December — it’s actually OK with me if it’s nippy in November and dark and cold in December. By the middle of January, though, I miss feeling the sunshine. And then I get cranky.
The spring preview issue makes for a nice remedy, though, because even though as we worked on this issue we had jackets and boots closer than suntan lotion and sandals, it reminds us that we have brighter days ahead. Even the events happening promise warmth — I’m thinking specifically about Glow, the Barnhill exhibit at the Museum of Fine Arts, and SunLit, the annual celebration of writing and reading and all things related.
It’s not only those two things, though — in December, every event (it seems) focuses on winter and the holidays, but by January our events start to reflect the spectacular nature of Tampa Bay, whether it’s the slew of art festivals heading our way, paddles through our many nature preserves or outdoor concerts. And you’ll find all those things in the following pages — not only visual art and theater happenings, but outdoor movies, yoga in the park (I understand if you look up “St. Petersburg” in the dictionary there’s actually a picture of people in the lotus position), and trail runs.
Springtime in Tampa Bay means many things, but one undeniable thing is that it means you can be outside. A lot.
So, go ahead — plan the next few months, and make sure you fill your time with concerts, art exhibits, plays, paddles, films and, well, all the best things happening in Tampa Bay. We’ll see you there, we’re sure (oh, and food and drink, too!)
But right now, if you’ll excuse me, I have two dogs who are tired of being inside and really would like to go outside, please.
To be honest, I’m right there with ‘em. See you outside!
Cathy Salustri is the arts + entertainment editor for Creative Loafing. Contact her here, and don't miss any event in Tampa Bay — subscribe to our weekly Do This newsletter!
