(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

It's been so hot here on the Plateau this week, that I needed to find some cool comfort. I thought looking at this picture from a couple of years ago might help, but relief doesn't last very long.

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

There are many advantages to living in the mountains, but the late Spring display put on by Mountain Laurel is definitely one of the nice things we can enjoy. This photo was snapped at the end of May.

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

Redbud trees in bloom, blue skies, bright sunshine and Old Glory waving in the breeze. How could any day get off to a better start?

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

In May, 2009, Betsy and I traveled from Cherokee, North Carolina, to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, on Newfound Gap road. Along the way we stopped at an overlook, where I got this picture. According to the weather reporters these mountains are now covered in snow. I much prefer the Spring colors.

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

The high winds and heavy rains of Saturday pretty much did in our remaining tulips and daffodils. Fortunately we have pictures by which to remember those glorious Spring blossoms. The Tahiti Daffodil has graced our yard for several years.

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

Spring has been slow in coming to the Plateau, but we're still hopeful. We have had some beautiful crocus blooming this year, such as the two blossoms pictured above. I captured these beauties in our garden last week.

(This picture can be enlarged by clicking on it.)

'Spring'. The word itself sounds refreshing and exciting. In our yard and garden spring flowers are pushing through the ground. Soon color will return and, I hope, so will warm weather and sunshine.

I've always thought of forsythia as a sure sign that Spring has arrived. I took this picture at Serenity Falls toward the end of March last year. I haven't seen any forsythia yet this year, but it is something to look forward to!