The winter really hasn’t been a harsh one, just cold bursts here and there, but by the time February rolls around I’m 100% ready for spring. Some of the flowers are, too.

The daffodils are already nodding their cheery faces as if to beckon warmer days. The dandelions and dead nettle are keeping the bees fed while hellebores and camellias are brightening shady corners. Meanwhile the pansies (and their more demure cousin, wild violet) are still in full display all over town.