The Battle for Spring Wages On ... Tulips vs Snowflakes

So alas, Mother Nature greeted me this morning with a dusting of snow. Again.

But then ... the mini blizzard happened. Fortunately, years ago, a weatherman taught me the principle of big small, small big. When the flakes are big, chances are the storm will be small. And vice versa. I knew these giant flakes pouring down by the bucketful were no real threat.

My tulips and crocuses are only slightly traumatized by another winter storm. They'll love getting a drink, as I've not turned on the sprinklers yet. But clearly, my thongs and capris will have to wait another day. Sigh.

The Llamas Were Out On This Fine Spring Morning

A few scenes from my morning walk, for your viewing pleasure.

You probably have cool things to see near your house, too. Llamas live less than a mile away from me. Today they were savoring the cool grass and sunny, warm morning. (Hint: click on this picture and all the rest to enlarge. You'll practically see the llama's smile if you do.)

The view on my walk/jog through the hood today was nigh unto unparalleled.

The spring snow melt has begun.

My parish, St. Thomas More, won an AIA Architectural Merit Award in 1995. The windows at the front let in spectacular light in shades of turquoise and lavender.

The construction project to expand parish classroom and supporting facilities continues ...

When I see this view, it reminds me of Switzerland.

Annemarie and I have joint ownership of this mountain. Well, not really, but we speak about it as if we do.

The hill ahead is better than a Thighmaster for burning fat.

And finally, a view from the back porch.

* * *

Happy Spring, everybody. Thanks for reading!

And With Spring Comes L'Amour ...

Spring would hardly be spring without an inspiring love message.

There is no disguise which can hide love for long where it exists, or simulate it where it does not.
Francois de La Rochefoucauld

Source: Brainyquote.com

And here, the same quote, in French, from where Monsieur de La Rochefoucauld hails.

Il n'y a aucun déguisement qui peut cacher l'amour pour longtemps où il existe, ou le simule où il ne fait pas.

I like it even better!

Either way, I'm sure you get the gist of it ... real love is visible, almost tangible. And love's imposter is exposed ... sooner or later.

May your spring day be filled with flowers and something sweet!

Robins on the Lawn

Robins on the lawn is a metaphor for new beginnings.

There are robins on the lawn.

The calendar says it's spring.

The weather says "wintry mix."

Still, the robin's mere appearance is a signal that winter is fading.

The grip of yesterday is loosened.

The robin signals verdant, green, uncharted fields.

So begin again.

Photography courtesy of Phillip Bastian