“The more clearly we can focus our attention on the wonders and realities of the universe, the less taste we shall  have for destruction.” Rachel Carson

Mother Nature wants us to know who is really in charge. Whenever humanity begins to think we can control just about anything, Mom Nature sets us straight. We are at her mercy. These past few weeks of winter, she has once again reminded us of that. We woke up to an icy world last week. On top of the foot of snow, we got freezing rain that coated every surface with a layer of ice.

It did make for a beautiful, sparkling world that left some trees bowing under the weight. Luckily we never lost power.

We are fortunate compared to the folks in Texas and other states struggling with weather disasters. Our hearts go out to them.

 

 

 

The birds rushed to the feeders at daylight only to find it difficult to light on anything. We watched as they slid off the hangers for the feeders and skated across the icy surfaces, unable to land anywhere. The tree branches were all coated with ice, so even trying to alight on a branch was difficult.                                                                               

 

 

 

 

Under these severe conditions, it makes me wonder just how wildlife survives. Surely this deep snow covered with a hard crust of ice must make it so difficult for many animals to find food.                                                                                                                 

 

 

 

 

The ice has been on for days now. We have been fortunate to have a couple of days of sunshine. While it didn’t warm the temps up much, it did warm our spirits a bit. It makes for a beautiful winter landscape with the ice and snow sparkling like jewels. Substantial icicles hang from the gutters. We hope those will be melting off during the warm-up ahead.

 

 

 

 

Last night’s temperature was 7 degrees. We were treated to a beautiful sunrise this morning with the sun a huge red ball in the sky. Temps are supposed to go above freezing for the first time in a while. The maple buds are still encased with ice, but the big thaw is on the way this week. The sap will begin to run for sure. I see pancakes with fresh maple syrup in our future!