Crabtree Nature Center

Today was a beautiful day here in the Chicago area. The sun finally shone after days of rain. Even though it was a little chilly (temperature was around 50 degrees F) it was perfect hiking weather.

We visited Crabtree Nature Center, part of the local Forest Preserve.

Here is the path to the duck blind.

I found some Trillium getting ready to bloom.


We always are on the lookout for tracks. I think these are deer footprints.

Can you see the frog? He has good camouflage! They were croaking like crazy.

Some pretty Virginia Bluebells.

A real treat to see some cute goslings swimming with mom and Dad.

Signs of Spring!

Ridiculously In Love.....

With Ranunculus

I picked up these pots of Rununculus at Home Depot. I'm completely head over heels in love with their delicate layer petals and eye popping color.


I remember Martha Stewart saying they are one of her favorite flowers, now I can see why.

They are also called Persian Buttercups. They grow from tubers. I'm going to put them on my TBP list (to be planted).

The Forsythia Is In Bloom

Today the first real sign of arrived....the Forsythia opened it's beautiful blooms! The weather is expected to follow suit in the next couple of days.


It's hard not to be cheered by the branches full of golden goodness.