Toward the end of February. Anxiously awaiting signs of spring. More birds singing and chirping; more light early in the morning; easier to get up!

On my walk through Discovery today I saw a large hawk soaring overhead. Probably a Cooper's. What a beautiful sight. Saw quite a few Anna's Hummingbirds, a couple of Gold Crowned Sparrows, at least I think that's what they were. Must get Miriam, the birder out to confirm. Red Winged Blackbirds, Bewicks Wrens some Robins, and of course the usual suspects - crows, and starlings. After seeing so many pigeons in my neighborhood I'm beginning to really appreciate crows. Much rather have smart and amusing crows. Up at Discovery they were trying to crack what appeared to be Hazelnuts. Don't know where those came from. Also noticed some small green leaves beginning to appear on the branches of lower bushes.

At home I've finished pruning my apple and pear trees. Maybe I'll plant some Dahlias this year. Haven't been very successful yet but I keep trying in honor of Dad who had 60+ different kinds. I've always loved them but I have a lot of clay here. Dad had a strong back and a green thumb. He believed in compost. Maybe raised beds are the answer. In a few weeks it will be time to prune my roses. Yeah! Can hardly wait. (For spring, that is.)