Spring is having a hard time here. Cold, cold, cold! I tried to remove all the leaves and dead things from the planters outside three days ago (54 degrees out) and found out that while there is mud in the yard, the planters are still frozen solid. *sigh* But there are a few bits of spring struggling forward.
While we still have no Red-Winged Blackbirds and the Juncos haven’t left, the crows have returned. Last year we lost one of the parents that comes here every year to have their babies. Just one parent was left raising 4 little ones. I don’t know how to tell the males from females, so I don’t know who survived. But one arrived here with a larger, obviously younger bird. Jet black and full-bodied, he/she is full of life. The question? Is this a new mate or one of the children who survived the winter?
This is the older bird. I have not been able to get a picture of the younger bird. He/she is very observant. The least little movement is noticed. Like me sneaking to a window to try to get a picture. Even though my windows on the back of the house are second story.
While I was doing some yard work, I was thrilled to find that the spring flowers are coming up. Sort of.
One lone crocus. Hopefully the warm weather will inspire more.
Look what I found when I cut down my Japanese Blood Grass! A wee columbine of a type I thought had died. Evidently a seed took root! This columbine is short with red flowers. Can’t wait! (OOOOooooo, can you see the hyacinth peeking next to the columbine?)
And in looking out my kitchen window I finally saw a sure sign that spring truly is on the way.
The American Goldfinches are finally turning yellow!
But then the day before yesterday…
Surprise! I woke up to snow again!
And I leave you with a very spring like mug that I’m drinking tea from while dreaming of flowers!
Critters and Chaos 