Nature is a funny character. You never know what she will do. Humans have evolved into an animal who likes to control. We live walled off from the natural world in controlled climates, controlled air quality, controlled lighting, even controlled mental stimulation. But in reality it is nature who is in control. I quite like that about her.
We have not had a hard winter this year here in eastern Kansas. In fact, it has been downright nice out. The world around us had decided to come forth in vibrant color just as it does every year at about this time. But nature had one last surprise for us.
Two days ago it started to rain. Grasses can green up literally over night with early spring rains. But a strange wind accompanied this rain, wind that was swirling in circles, and then the temperature began to drop dramatically. The rain began to freeze on every surface outside. Although this is a nightmare if there is somewhere that you need to go, it is quite beautiful if you are able to stay cozy and warm in your home. The ice came on a weekend. That was fortunate.
The freezing rain eventually turned into sleet which turned into snow. It was strange to see ice and snow covering tree blossoms and spring flowers.
By the next day the weather front had moved on and left only bright sunshine behind. This is when the layers of ice are the most beautiful. This photo below was taken at the base of our driveway. The tree blossoms look HUGE as they are encased in a fat layer of ice and snow.
It is strange to see delicate blossoms encased in ice and snow.
The sun shining through the ice creates wonderful abstract shapes.
The red bud trees are just starting to emerge in color. Hopefully the ice will not stunt their blossoms this year.
Below is a view of our deck that overlooks the icy woods. Our home is surrounded by woods, so we have this crystal ice castle view on all sides.
The daffodil blooms likely will not survive this wintry assault. This one below is encased in an icy coffin.
