It is dry out there. I realize that the river is still in flood stage. The vernal ponds are filled with water. Yet there is an underlying dryness. April traditionally brings showers that bring the longed for May flowers. We have had only a few, some that came as snow. It is dry. The dust is flying whenever a car goes by. Has this delayed the spring flowers? Probably not. Most of the spring flowers bloom from energy stored up over the fall and over winter. So the Hepatica come bursting through the dried leaves, without waiting for the showers of spring. Bright patches of purple, with the occasional white blooms, dot the forest floors. They will quickly fade away, leaving behind the leaves to grow and store up for next years blooms.

Marsh Marigolds are popping up in the wet areas. Yellow carpets filling in the lowlands before the taller foliage fills in. If you are walking and are wondering if you will get wet feet, stay out of the marigolds. They growing standing water, even in dry years.

What will be the next to bloom? The willows are probably already starting, although the "flowers" are not something to bring home for the table. If you watch you will see many insects around them and also the insect eaters, such as the Yellow-rumped Warblers. They are flying around, so quick you can find them hard to get a good look at them. Tree Swallows are back, flitting along the river, feeding on invisible insects and searching for nesting sights.

I expect the Leatherwood will soon be blooming in the woods. Violet leaves are showing, which means the violets can not be far behind!

As I type I hear rain on my roof, meaning that spring really is here, hopefully to stay! So as you get out and walk, remember to look for the little things! Soon enough they will be the big things, and then many will be gone, covered in summers green.

Photo by Ann Luloff, Round Lobed Hepatica