Yes, Spring is on its way!

Temperatures in our garden are still on the low side in single figures, yet buds seemingly about to flower on our magnolia tree are a sure sign that Spring must be only just round the corner.
I did worry a couple of weeks ago that snow accompanied by below zero temperatures might put paid to the usual colourful display we have come to expect from early spring onwards.
But the goblet shaped buds appear to have survived and look as though they might burst forth any day.
The horticultural experts tell me that magnolias usually flower before the leaves emerge and usually flower in flushes through spring, summer till autumn
They are certainly a welcome and hopefully convincing sign that Spring will live up to expectations.