The return

In Virginia, Spring has barely begun

It was the worst winter in 20 years. It was my first winter in Virginia. It figures. The cold has mostly faded now but spring has been slow to show itself to us frigid Virginians. Just like us, everything is still thawing out, perhaps a little nervous to show itself for fear that the unforgiving cold will rebound. Many things are scarred.

Little signs of life exist though. Delicate buds hang from drab branches, their velvety texture a stark contrast to the harsh gray around them.

Purple blooms find a way in a tangle of a downed counter-part — life amidst death.

Petite wild flowers have risen from the frozen earth and smile with their perseverance.

Some trees hold full blooms while some have held back — their florets trembling in the sunlight.

The robin and his friends sing of spring’s return. The landscape is following suit. It won’t be long before the green returns.