Elmer's Evolution

Spring is here! Can't you hear the rumble of skates as the children zip by the house in their youthful glee? Can't you hear the mingled chatter of the spring birds? Can't you smell the sweetness of the pure, clean air such a relief from that choking smog of the long winter? Can't you see the first buds as they peep through the small gray tips of the dismal twigs? And can't you see Elmer his beautiful red hair and his bright eyes gleaming as they catch the ray of the warm, mellow sun? Can't you see him? He's standing right out there in the yard like a victorious king in the center of his domain. This winter with its excessive dose of snow, slush, and dirt told pitifully on Elmer. He was always dirty, and his restlessness reflected the uncertainty of the world around him . With the first sign of spring Elmer perked up. His attitude became that of one who thinks life beautiful and worth living. He took more pride in himself, and hung his head in sharne when forced to make an appearance in anything but his Sunday best. Today Elmer paid a visit to his favorite beauty parlor. His hair has taken on a new radiance and is as soft as silk. The ends of his long hair curl up in tune with his pert little nose; and his coloring, portraying him as a ball of Satan's fire, is a more lustrous red than ever before. Over and above all is the distinct fragrance 'of tar soap which surrounds him like a halo. And Elmer is proud with a proudness that is half egotism, for Elmer knows he's beautiful. He's proud because he is clean and pure and radiant like all the other signs of spring.