Last of the snow, February 24, 2011

The last time it snowed was the end of February. It took a few weeks to completely melt away, but then we could again see the debris that had to be cleaned up in the back yard; small branches, big limbs, pine cones and lots of needles, from the Fir trees in our back yard.

It's beautiful to look at and so quiet. I love the rounded tops on everything in the back yard.

When the bird bath freezes I take the ice out and pour slightly tepid water in the bowl, the birds love it and will drink and bathe often, we also keep the bird and squirrel feeders full.

I call these our 'snow mushrooms', the yard lights in back.

A little Junco rests on top of the bird feeder after feasting.

They're here all winter.

Our neighbor's beautiful Fir tree is even more beautiful with snow.

Douglas Fir resides in our back yard flower bed, he keeps an eye on things!

Inside the Amaryllis enjoys the brightness of a snowy day and works to finish the last of it's blooming.

We're able to get some pretty good pictures of our bird friends from our kitchen window. Here a Junco sits atop the snow covered Rhododendron and contemplates the short flight to the bird feeders.

We throw bird seed along the side of the house, under the eaves, where the snow won't cover it up. Here's one of several Mourning Doves that come regularly to feed.

Spring must be around the corner, the Crocus are poking through the snow.

Close up of the Crocus, so fresh and pretty!

One of our cats, Blue, would rather hang out on the back of the couch next to dad.

The snow melted and now it's March. One of the first Robins we saw at the feeder. Spring is definitely closer.