The Promise of Spring

All winter long, I've felt as if we've hovered somewhere between November and March, with none of those really seasonal months in between. It's not been terribly cold. Promises of significant snowfalls turn into dustings, and melt away before another day passes. The words "wind chill" have hardly factored into our temperatures at all.

For the early part of the winter, it seemed like November just lingered on. And now that the days are growing longer and sunnier, and birds are beginning to sing their mating songs, it seems like we've skipped right over winter and into an early spring. At least, so far.

I'm not complaining. Not one bit. True, the snowy photo opportunities were almost non-existent. True, the joy of seeing the last of an accumulation melt away hasn't happened. True, there's been limited snowballs to toss around for our over-energetic Benny. But also true is that I've enjoyed this winter that never was. And it might not be over, anyway. March may still turn out to be something we've not bargained for.

It won't be too much longer no matter what happens from here on in. And I'm enjoying the promise of spring. I hope you'll enjoy the late February sunshine along with me.

Late afternoon is the best time of day for sun kissed images at this time of year. Come on down the steps with me and we'll head out into the park.

These exposed tree roots are probably anxious for a snowier winter next year. They look rather thirsty.

Sunlight and shadows create various faces on this beautiful cedar trunk. I can see a sad, feminine face over to the left, looking to the right. Does it speak to you?

Milkweed pods are clever. They open at all different times of the year from late summer until well into the winter, ensuring that some of their seeds are ripe for rooting whenever the need arises.

Tree lovers share a kiss in the late day sunlight.

Another holdout - the bare bones of this seed pod and its fine tendrils which once held ivy-like leaves.

New buds are evident on this branch which still clings to last year's leaves.

It shouldn't be long at all now. Hopefully.