To tell you the truth, I took these shots a few weeks ago. I figured it was just too cruel to post them during the big blizzards that plagued the east. If you’re still in snow, I hope they’ll feel like the promise of beauty you’ll soon see yourself.

(You may not get daffodils in January, but on the other hand you don’t have earthquakes. Blossoms may come later to your neck of the woods, but at least they stay put.)

These funny little fungi were growing in moss which came to life on an oak tree as soon as it rained.

The tiny mushrooms were 1/4″ tall at the most. They seemed to occupy a magical little world.

 

January brought the first tentative appearance of daffodils.

 

Somehow the local bank ends up with the first apple blossoms of the year. Maybe it’s Nature’s way of softening the economy’s harsh edges.