Red poppies and cilantro have emerged. The cardoon has put on new growth, blue flowers are all over the variegated vinca, and sedum is up everywhere.

I have always been fond of February. The light has noticeably changed and spring is imminent.

I spoke too soon. Last week I commented that we have yet to have a proper winter.

I have accepted the fact that we are not having a proper winter.

It’s rather pleasant although troubling that we had nearly a week frost-free in the end of January.

There is no place like home. I just returned as I write this from our nation’s capital.