Awakening Spring: The Renewal of Life
With energy stored during winter, plants awaken from dormancy and thrive in spring. Like plants, only by weathering the tough times, can we emerge stronger.
1. The first sign of green
White clover after wintery rain, Jan. 25, 2024 (1/3 ºC, drizzle)
I sowed white clove seeds last May. They endured the scorching summer and thrived in the crisp fall. To my delight, they were the first out of hibernation, sprouting green leaves when the temperature was just above zero this year. What a joyful surprise!
2. Vibrant patch thriving on neglect
lichen on tree trunk in the early spring freeze, Feb. 17, 2024 (-4/-8 ºC, cloudy)
Lichen peeping becomes my newfound hobby. It's so fascinating how something so small and often overlooked can add a burst of color to the otherwise gray and humid spring landscape. They are unsung beauty!
3. Frosty beauty
Cherry flower buds after snow, Mar. 23, 2024 (-7/2 ºC, cloudy)
On an early winter morning post-snow, under a clear blue sky, I noticed tiny pinkish tips on white cherry buds. They brave the cold to sprout, promising spring blooms. Nature's resilience shine even in the chill.
4. Winter Farewell
Holly after wintery rain, Mar. 24, 2024 (-2/-7ºC, Sunny)
Icicles on holly tree leaves were like frozen tears, perhaps they are the last of this winter. I felt a bit melancholy upon realizing it'll take another 12 months to see such beauty return.
5. Beacons of hope
Forsythia after a spring downpour, Apr. 12, 2024 (6/16ºC, rain)
Forsythia flowers, blooming just two days prior, danced wildly in the downpour. Raindrops adorned their petals, shimmering like diamonds. Hopefully, they can make it through the storm, reaching full bloom
6. A phoenix rising from the ashes
Altantis Stonecrop, Apr. 26, 2024 (1/13ºC, sunny)
These stone crops were broken by animals last year, leaving only small pieces of leaves above ground. I replanted them, and they rebounded, enduring the winter's test and growing exuberantly this spring.