After last weekend’s 80 and 86 degree weather, things are proceeding rapidly down the road to summer! Well, probably not quite yet because there is certain to be more cold weather ahead, but these unseasonably warm temperatures have caused early leaf break and we’ve been scrambling to get all the late pruning done. It is exciting though to see new buds appearing, blossoms opening to reveal brand-new color, little leaves unfurling, even the birds are singing their hearts out. And the best of all, the spring peepers are back!!!
April 7, 2010
March 24, 2010
Early Spring
Yes! We’re moving into Spring now. Have spinach, lettuce, and snow peas planted in planters on the deck, the garlic is up about 3 inches in the big veggie garden (but the strawberries are still sleeping), and artichoke and leek seeds are germinating in the greenhouse. We were spoiled last week by almost 70 degree weather, teasing us to come and start cleaning up the yard. We resisted, knowing that Ol’ Man Winter is probably not done with us yet. However, after two days of solid rain, an escape was needed from the house and the gloves, clippers, rake, and wheelbarrow suddenly appeared begging to be put to work!
Look at this mossy rock! The backlighting from the bright sun shows the spore capsules in wonderful detail. Lots of things are showing their stuff now. Of course, there are the daffodils, looking just about ready to burst forth with their cheery faces.
Then there are the pussy willows . . .
and look at the peach trees! My mouth is already watering just thinking about how luscious those peaches were last year.
The Toronto tulips were such a success last year in a container that I planted them again that way – this time on purpose! Don’t you love the red streaks on the leaves?
And some of the perennials are starting to poke their heads up. The poppies with their lime-green, fuzzy leaves were quite a surprise to see!
Winter was a time for snoozing, for regenerating. Spring is a time for awakening, for a fresh beginning. The sun is bright, the air is crisp, the birds are singing their songs loud and clear and long. Now, where are the peepers?!
March 7, 2010
Technicolor Day
Brilliant sunshine, temps moving into the 40’s – maybe spring is moving northwards? The snowdrops are blooming . . .
and this yin-yang picture of crazy daffodils poking up through the snow and their leaf mulch shows that the snow is receding. Slowly, slowly.
The dark-eyed juncos have returned now that it has warmed up a tad and it looks like this one is scolding Mrs. Cardinal about how much seed she is consuming.
A good day to take another trip to Mendon Ponds! In the woods, the little beech glows in the sunlight . . .
and the rushes are golden.
The ice is starting to go out of the outlet . . .
So tell me, is Spring arriving in your neck of the woods yet?