Snowdrops in January - Again!

My leg was feeling well enough today to hobble out of the house and make a quick circuit of the backyard on my way to the composter. My leg hasn't been the only thing keeping me indoors. We've been experiencing a Nor'Easter. Here in Central New Jersey, it's been rain only. Further north into New York State and Connecticut, there was up to 10" (25.5 cm) of snow. It felt weird though to hear the weather commentators discussing a Nor'Easter and look out the window and see rain instead of snow. It rained most of yesterday, all last night and most of today. Altogether, we received 1 3/4" (4.5 cm) of rain which translates to over 1' (30 cm) of snow!

Just like last year , I have a snowdrop blooming by the birdbath.

Notice there are two blossoms. Last year, there was only one so not only has this become a regular occurence in my winter garden, the display is also expanding.

Also looking very good are the hellebores:

I have high hopes that at least the ones I planted in the fall of 2004 will bloom this year. Since these are new to my garden, I don't know when to start looking for flowers.

I was also heartened to see very little predation of all the bulbs and tubers I planted in the fall. As usual, I made no notes and drew no plans so I have forgotten a good many of the things I planted. I'm looking forward to lots of pleasant surprises in the spring.

Catalogs continue to pour in although not the one (Select Seeds) that I am anxiously waiting for. Henry Fields is offering both the Red Grootendorst rose (introduced 1918) and the Pink Grootendorst rose (introduced 1923) for $9.95 each. Decisions, decisions.