The rite of spring

In a small patch of ground near the entrance to the cathedral parking lot, various plants are pushing forth buds and reaching for the morning sunshine. The scraggly bush that was cut back to the ground seems to be putting out new growth, but so far the daffodils are winning.

In the garden space along the western wall (not shown), the sharp leaves of irises are pressing skyward through the mass of ivy. There will be magnificent blossoms soon enough, but after all, it's still only February.