Springlike Day

On Long Island's South Shore it was like a spring day! That is quite a gift from heaven during the dead of winter. Crocuses are up as well as daffodils. There is something about seeing the earth broken up by a perennial pushing itself up from the winter's sleep.

Winter is not even a month old and yet while spring was in the air today it seemed so close!

The Deep Freeze

With single digit temperatures here on Long Island today, the birds at the feeders were ravenous. No sooner had I given them their morning feeding and they were on the feeders, tables and ground eating to their heart's content. It was a sight to behold.

Water is available at the pond. While the majority of the pond is frozen solid, the pump keeps a small portion moving so it will not freeze. Our fine feathered friends are able to get hydrated there.

The deep freeze actually is good. I know we have all heard a lot of complaining today. I know 49 of the 50 States experienced freezing temps. I understand many folks, although I am not among them, disdain the cold.

However, the deep freeze we experiencing right now in the northeast is good for plants like the daylilies. The freeze helps them bloom more beautifully in the summer. This is also true of other perennials like tulips, daffodils and irises. This deep freeze is giving these plants rest. It is their vacation. The colors of these blooms are actually more brilliant when they open due to the deep freeze rest.

So while it is cold now, come spring and the show opens in your yard and all over and you see the colors, think of this time when they got a break.

A Wonderful Account

http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/12/31/how-heartland-mom-lost-her-dream-and-found-her-voice/

Pastor Al Mason, Tony's grandfather, officiated at my Dad and Mom's wedding ceremony at the Springfield Gardens Church of the Nazarene in 1954.

Winter Is For The Birds!

Don't let the title mislead you! I love winter. We are on the eve of a major winter storm here on Long Island and I am like a kid at Christmas! I love snow.

My backyard in the winter shines. The plant life is asleep but the birds are especially beautiful. Their colors get brighter in the colder weather. We get some birds here the next three months which are scarce when the food sources abound in the wooded areas.

Without the foliage on the trees and with snow on the ground nearly perfect viewing conditions exist from my bay window in the kitchen. How many times I have worked there and looked out to see some wonderful sight! I keep my camera close by.

Yes, Winter is for the Birds!... and for those of us who enjoy watching them!