Ode to the lovely lenten rose

"The flowers of late winter and early spring occupy places in our hearts well out of proportion to their size." - Gertrude S. Wister

Winter seems to be exceptionally long this year but when I was out scouting today and making a list of all the maintenance that needs to be done in the garden I was thrilled to see the Lenten Rose beginning to bloom. There is nothing better than a beautiful bloom to reassure a gardener who is itching to get out that spring is just around the corner. This is one of four that are in the woodland garden. They were planted on the first day of spring last year and have survived the summer heat & drought, drenching rains this fall and prolonged freezing temperatures this winter. They are such good sports and a joy to my soul!