It’s not unusual for western Pennsylvania to be a bit behind the times. But in the case of the vernal equinox, we’re actually not lagging too much — only a month or so.

Here’s how I can tell:

* I can drive to and from work, music playing loudly, with the windows down. No shivering involved.

* Young’s Custard stand opened last weekend, and I’ve already had my first black raspberry cone.

* I got my 2006 Indians media guide in the mail.

* I can find any baseball on TV or the radio — OK, especially the radio — and be happy.

* My eyes are burning and my nose is running. Allergies aren’t exactly good things, but they come with the season.

* The skis are put away in the basement. The golf clubs are about to come upstairs.

* Rutabagas everywhere — like the one above, near Mansfield, Ohio — are sprouting leafy green things. I understand they’re called leaves.