April could be referred to as the month around the corner, the one that signals a directional shift from winter towards the Island’s shoulder season. It begins on a whim, celebrating the art of foolishness (take note Chappy column readers) and ends, at least here on the Island, with a clarity of purpose. The summer show is not far off, reservations are booked, the audience expectant, and the backstage crew working feverishly.

Landscapers work hoe to mower, house painters swarm the scaffolds, and shinglers fill the air with the pop-pop sound of the nail gun, now as common as bird song.

Yes, it does take a lot of work to prepare for summer. Does the Island, its physical self, ever shudder in anticipation of the coming summer party for over 100,000 after moving for months at the speed of a quiet potluck for some 16,000.

Perhaps, but for those who live here year-round, the return — first of the snowbirds and then summer friends and tourists too — is a reason to celebrate. The off-season is lovely and quiet, and come late August many yearn longingly for a hasty summer exit. But come April, arms open wide in anticipation of a full house.

Word has it the bluefish are already in Rhode Island. An overflowing stand-by line cannot be far behind.

Standing on the corner of March and April, even waiting in line appears divine.