Today's Joy: Resilience.

It's been cold the last few nights, Reader. Cold enough that we had a pretty good frost the other day, much to Aunt's (and my) dismay. Her beautiful, creamy-yellow magnolia blossoms were just beginning to open. We've been waiting to enjoy them for several months, but now, they're barely open & they're already turning brown. Rats!

Then I took the dogs outside this morning and got a surprise! Several very young blooms made it through the frost and are now opening in all their creamy-yellow glory. Just when we thought there would be no magnolia joy this spring. Gotta love those little unexpected gifts! Can't wait for Aunt to see them when she gets home tonight!

There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. - Anais Nin

Today's Joy: Green Things Popping Up!
Here they are, Reader. The first plants to emerge in the yard this spring! My aunt's lovely crocuses are taking advantage of the sunshine and popping up despite a roller coaster of temperatures that have us foregoing jackets in the morning and donning Carhart overalls by dark.
I can't help but marvel at the hardy little things. I admire their tenacity. And their faith that despite appearances, it will soon be warm! Hope there's a delightful little surprise growing outside your door this morning, Reader. If there is, send me some photos!

Today's Joy: Daffodils.
I was reading the latest issue of Midwest Living this morning, Reader, and came across this fabulous article on the top ten daffodils for the midwest.  Is there anyone who doesn't love these first-on-the-scene, perky-yellow perennials?  This year especially, it seems I can't wait to see them popping up out of the freshly-thawed ground.  All of my springtime childhood memories involve their sunshiney little faces.

If you're in the mood to see yellow, stop by the Missouri Botanical Garden in April for their spectacular annual daffodil display, featuring 750 types of the little darlings.  You can also hike the scenic 'Daffodil Trail'.  I think we should put this on the must-see list for next year.  Drop me a line if you're up for a little yellow road trip!

Photo: Daffodil, St. Charles, IL. Spring, 2008.