Hope Springs Eternal

Even as I complained yesterday about the long long winter, I keep getting glimpses of the spring that is inevitably right around the corner.

One of my favorites harbingers is the arrival of daffodils in the grocery stores. They show up about this time every year and I've seen them sell for anywhere between $1.00 and $2.50 for a bunch of ten. I figure five bucks or so is a small price to pay for that much hope.

I know there are parts of the country where the daffodils are already in full bloom, but it will probably be at least another month until we see the crocus push their heads up through the snow. Tulips, like going outside with out a heavy coat, are still just dreams. So, we take the promise of warmth where we can get it.

Another way I know that spring is close is when bright colors and open lace start feeling right again. The browns, greys and blacks of winter begin to feel a little oppressive. This crocheted shrug is a birthday present for Amanda from her friend Mercedes. Somehow the bright cheery color makes that little bit snow in the background all but disappear.