first flowers

When I wen out this morning, there was no hint of anything but a winter garden. When I went out in the afternoon to enjoy the sunshine, I was greeted by the first bulbs to bloom.

The first of the reticulata irises struck my eyes as I stepped out the door, and I think my heart stopped for a bit. Poking out of the faded leaves of Artemesia versicolor, the color stands out from the otherwise grey and brown landscape.

For the last few years, I had thought the snow crocus had perished. But this past winter's moisture must have given it an extra boost of energy to produce a pale blue 1/2 inch blossom that catches the fleeting warmth of the February sun. What could be more delightful?

 And how considerate of them to bloom together.