Is there a better notice that Spring is near than sweet daffodil faces? Last fall I planted a variety of daffodils. Our winter was so mild, they started blooming several weeks ago.

Lots of flowers I consider annuals survived the winter. Petunias have greened up and are blooming their heads off. The gerber daisies decided to winter over, and the purple one is in full bloom, while the yellow one is lagging a bit behind.

Every day, actually, every moment in the garden brings something new. The basil and lettuces in the little greenhouse are coming along nicely, and the tomato plants will go out in a few days. The lilac bush has leaves AND flower buds. I LOVE lilacs! The roses have put out new shoots and even the hydrangeas have tiny leaves beginning to sprout on their limbs. I have to admit this is my favorite time of year.

The ajuga will spread quickly and fill in the space, and should hold back the soil that washes downhill. I'll try something similar a bit uphill to minimize the erosion. Right now, I think I need to find a couple of stepping stones to help navigate the path.

It's the beginning of March, and I pulled the swimming pool out today. Granted, it is a lovely, sunny day, and the high will be around 70, though the dogs were panting when it hit 55 this morning, but it seems odd to have the pool out while the grass hasn't made much of an appearance yet.

But the dogs loved it!

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As I watered the plants this morning, Freki kept playing in the water spray. So, she rather talked me into pulling the pool out of storage. I am now responsible for keeping it clean(ish)-- I mean, really, it's muddy 5 seconds after I wash it out-- and filled. Spring is here.