A walk in the woods

This was not a typical walk in the Oregon woods. Rather it was a guided tour of the Gerdemann Botanical Preserve in Yachats, cultivated by botanist Jim Gerdemann over perhaps 30 years. While conifers such as spruce and hemlock are certainly present in the preserve, so are unusual varieties such a tree fuchsia, tree ferns, palms, and eucalyptus (bottom 3 photos).

Many of the vast collection of rhododendrons were blooming, in a wonderful assortment of colors. And other rhodies were spectacular, even if they weren't blooming.

The preserve contains native species such as camas, and many exotic species from all over the world. It's a great place to visit.

Spring time

This time of year, whenever the weather seems dreary, I look to daffodils and their resilience. They bloom through sleet and hail , rain and cold. Their lifestyle resembles the motto of the U.S. Postal Service. So here's to all the cheer-inducing daffodil blossoms. Enjoy the spring!