Daylight savings time began this past weekend. Although I challenge the continued need to change our clocks twice a year, it is one more milestone toward warmer weather and longer days, and I am looking forward to both. Especially this year!

This weekend brought yet another snow storm and icy wind gusts up to 45mph. In spite of the bone chilling cold, I made of few photos of our holly tree. Although I am more than ready for spring, I am trying to live more in the moment, and well, that is what was happening at that moment. Besides, the green contrast of the holly leaves with the red berries against a blanket of crystal white snow is hard to pass by without taking a picture.

In addition to our huge holly, we are fortunate to have lots of tress scattered along our landscape. Some seem to have been planted as part of a larger design, but others seem to have volunteered for the job and rooted wherever they chose. Unfortunately, their choice 20+ years ago, in some cases, means some of the trees are growing into each other or competing too much for the same spot leaving neither tree to do well. We also have several native cherry trees that are, unfortunately, at the end of their life. Age, neglect, and storm damage seem to be taking their toll. We did have an arborist come out to evaluate several of the trees and they confirmed what we had suspected. For as much as I hate taking down trees, we do have about 8 that are safety issues and must come down.

We also have several trees that are being choked by brush made up of invasive vines and thorn bushes. We will also remove all of that brush then mulch and fertilize the beautiful mature trees that remain. I will then plant new native trees, shrubs and other plantings to create new habitats for all our birds and pollinators. I know that they use the brush and sick trees for shelter, but I have to balance the invasive plant species and dead or dying trees with safe places for the birds, pollinators, and humans to call home. Of course, the pollinator meadow and cut flowers we are planting this spring will also contribute positively to the habitat for all of us too! Across our 6 acres, my goal is to remove only what is absolutely necessary and always give back to nature so much more!