Why It Is Called Spring

On Long Island we have had snow on the ground from

December 26th until a few days ago. It was the longest stretch I ever saw in all my 43 winters here. Then the rains came yesterday. Heavy rain and wind. The temperature went up to 50 degrees and the snow disappeared. While there are still piles here and there, green has emerged as the dominant color of the landscape once again.

Underneath that frozen blanket lay bulbs deep in the ground. They have been planted over the years. The deep freeze is needed for these amazing perennials. Crocuses, Daffodils and Tulips as well as the incredible Daylilies all have been sleeping through the dead of winter. They have rejuvenated.

This morning while filling the bird feeders something caught my eye. It was a crocus! Not yet in bloom but green and strong it pushed itself through the ground. I had to go back out and admire it again. While there I noticed several daffodils, then more- rows upon rows! All the planting I have done over the past few years is paying off in huge dividends! While it will be weeks before the daffodils bloom like the one in the picture from several years ago, there is a visible reminder spring is here in the northeast. Understanding we may get more snow before winter's end doesn't bother me. I have seen these amazing plants push right through the snow and bloom beautifully when temperatures are still cold!

For my friends futher north who still have the white winter blanket covering the outdoors- be of good cheer. It won't be long until the sun melts it and you too are seeing the earth's spring!

I love this time of the year. Most of what graces my gardens are perrenials. The rest is grass and water. A fish pond is out back as well. By next week the fish will be seen frequently. The red winged blackbirds are at the feeders regularly now. The buds are all over the trees. Spring has come like an old friend. Every year in the backyard it is more beautiful than the year before. Let's celebrate! The Creator of heaven and earth is throwing a party! You are invited to come and join in the wonderful festivities. See you there!