qtb mixtape #04: wind.

A mix like a cold mid-spring breeze, as we clamor for warmth.

An early sign of spring in my neighborhood. (Photo: Joe Erbentraut)

It’s hard to think of a trickier time of year in the Midwest than this mid-spring slog. We’ve tasted flashes of warmth and sun. The cherry blossoms are blooming, and tulips will too, soon. Maybe we’ve even pulled our summer clothes back out of storage. “That was the last cold day,” we tell ourselves, as we wipe away the tears the cold wind makes us cry. “It’s only up from here!” We smile. Deep down, we know it’s a lie—but we’re still so close we can feel it.

Yes, there are warmer days ahead. I’m no meteorologist, but probably soon! Meanwhile, we’re watching more people get dragged out of their cars and away from their families. We’re mincing words over what’s a concentration camp vs. a prison vs. a permanent penal colony vs. a mere gulag. Katy Perry went to space for 11 minutes, barely looked out the window, and cosplayed any one of us who’s ever been interviewed for a job they are absolutely not qualified for. Influencers are piling into Coachella on their payment-plan tickets just to stand around and disrespect Missy Elliott. And yet, the bills still need to get paid, and the dinner prepared, and the trash taken out.

But wind brings change. We certainly could use it. This Saturday is another nationwide day of protest against the Trump administration, with demonstrations happening locally here in both Batavia and South Elgin. If you’re looking for a protest near you, try this website or ask around! May we all protest against the horrors of this administration while we still legally can.