Footsteps of Spring

 

梅一輪 一輪ほどの あたたかさ

A single ume flower

single flower's 

worth of warmth

(Ransetsu Hattori, 1654-1707)

One Ume blossom (Prunus mume) in the chilly wind gives us warmth even if faintly.

It was too beautiful to stay indoors yesterday.

I went to Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden to walk leisurely and to see 

and take pictures of snowdrops.

Dainty Snowdrops shimmer pearly white.

Snowdrops are one of the first flowers to appear in the new year 

together with daffodils.

Ducks, herons and pigeons were enjoying themselves in the mid-April-like warmth. 

The duck duo (above) was always together like lovebirds or best friends

as long as I looked at them.

The below is a threesome.

Here's a Valentine's Day message from nature.

Valentine's Day custom of Japan would be unique.

It's only women who present, customarily chocolates or other sweets, to loved ones.

One month later March 14, men offer in return gifts to women.

We love chocolate, but the loveliest present to my husband was 

the hand-made animal cookies from our granddaughter M and her mother.

"Winter General", a very strong cold front from Siberia, is attacking us in a few days.

It's not easy to adjust myself to the frequent big temperature difference,

but ready to face the frigid cold again, wishing another snowfall.

Linked to Mosaic Monday