Fickle Mother Nature!

  Our spurt of springlike weather has taken a turn toward winter again.  Not that it can compare to the weather of our neighbors to the north but this is a tad worrisome.  A freeze just might damage the citrus blossoms enough to make them not set the fruit.  Not to mention the peach trees, pear trees and plum trees that are in full bloom.  A late freeze is rough on the gardens.  At least, I am late in getting the tomatoes and such set in the garden boxes.  There are no worries there.  

  However, while meandering in the gardens this morning before the rain chased me inside, I came across one sleepy, little fellow who had better take heed of the warnings.  It is going to be a tad chilly for the little toad to be out and about tonight!  This morning, the little one had ventured out from its cozy bed beneath the herb boxes.  It was enjoying a bit of fresh air and the fleeting sunshine.  Within the hour, though, clouds darkened and the rains came.  

  With the coming chill, I thought about that little toad and all of my critter friends that normally hide away during the cold.  With our thermometers jumping from heat waves to cold spells, you have to wonder just how confusing it must be.  Along with the emerging toads, lots of the birds have already had a first nest of eggs hatching.  Those little ones with no feathers better hide under Mama for warmth for the next few nights and I better get on the ball and haul the plants back into the greenhouse!  Mother Nature always has a few surprises up her sleeve.