And It’s March

March has arrived, dressed in February’s old, well-worn clothes.  More light snow fell here during the night, enough to delay school yet again.  Skies are cloudy and the temperature won’t rise much above freezing today.  But change is underfoot, and in the air.  The daffodils I planted last October are sending up their bright green sword-like foliage.  Our old maple trees are budding, as are the gray honeysuckle vines.  In the bird world, the cardinals and sparrows, stalwart winter soloists, are joined by choruses of other eager voices, especially in the early mornings.  Flocks of robins are feasting on luscious worm banquets offered by thawing lawns.  The squirrels, always lively even on the coldest days, seem to be stepping up their festive play.  Their high-wire acts among the branches are ever more frequent, ever more daring.  Spring may be in no hurry to make an early entrance, but it’s definitely waiting in the wings.   

Winter and spring together:  red holly berries are joined by clusters of tiny grape-like buds of mahonia, all coated in snow.