Start of the Thaw

After a week dominated by snow, temperatures have temporarily moved above zero, and we've even had some rain.

Icicles have dripped away, and footprints left by cats are assuming the proportions of larger beasts.

now the thaw's set in
signs of bear feet in the snow
build a bigger fence

In a white landscape, the few remaining hips on our Wild Yorkshire Rose hedge are a relief to us, as they are to the greenfinches that have been feeding on them. Released from their burden of snow, they have a fresh gleam, and anticipate the baubles that will hang from an indoor tree in the coming weeks.