spring is bustin' out all over

Due to our Mediterranean climate, spring arrives in Northern California earlier than in most other parts of the country. It has definitely arrived now, as all of the flowering trees are in full bloom at this time- plum, cherry, pear, apple, almond- all in dazzling colors of white, pink, lavender and red. Even the non-flowering deciduous trees are beginning to leaf out, such as the ashes, maples, and walnuts. The next seven days will be nothing short of perfect weather-wise, with sunny days and highs in the low to mid 70s through the end of next week. Take a walk in Lower Bidwell Park or on the Chico State campus (which has been designated an arboretum) and enjoy all of the spring blooms. Or, travel to Upper Bidwell Park where the terrain is more rugged and natural and go for a hike. Play tennis on an outdoor court or bike one of the many bike trails in the city. Take advantage of this gorgeous weather, for the stifling heat of summer is not too far away! Here is Chico's spectacular forecast for the next seven days from the National Weather Service: Today Sunny, with a high near 68. Northwest wind 6 to 13 mph. Tonight Clear, with a low around 38. North wind around 6 mph. Sunday Sunny, with a high near 72. West northwest wind around 7 mph. Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 41. Light and variable wind becoming east northeast around 5 mph in the evening. Monday Sunny, with a high near 72. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 45. Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 46. Thursday Partly sunny, with a high near 75. Thursday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 45. Friday Mostly sunny, with a high near 72.