Islanders can take solace from the fact that this dance of one step forward, two back, is the norm and not the exception where this time of year is concerned. The most remarkable gift of this season on the Vineyard is the rare day whose meteorological mood matches the buds sprouting so bravely below.

March on the Vineyard is a matter of lurching progress, a month in which Islanders have learned to take what each day gives them. This week, the menu was snow and then rain and then mud, but we all know that could change in a moment.