It smells like rain tonight

We have been relishing warm summery days this week, regardless of the specter of global climate change.  Tonight, however, the wind is blowing from the north and carrying the scent of rain.  A late dog walk gave me time to watch the clouds roll over my city, reflecting the street lights and dimming the sparkle of the last wistful Christmas lights on a few scattered homes. Rain is always welcome in our dry land, but in January the smell is surprising.  Winter deadens the senses -- cold air holds no scent, and fresh snow brings a stilled hush to the streets.  Rain is a promise of spring and awakening, making me pull the dogs restlessly, as if we are hurrying toward something instead of traveling in long circles out and back home again.  By the time the storm arrives the north wind may fix that, chilling and changing the rain to snow, settling us back down into winter; bringing forth scarves and gloves and frosty noses.  Until then, I walk just a little longer, hoping for a lilac breeze to sweeten my dreams.