Maple Leaf Buds

The sugar maple in my backyard is sprouting these bud like structures that will soon become leaves. A horde of insects were milling about, too, but they didn't stray into the frame. These beauties are a sure sign of spring.



It was a busy day today. I actually raked some leaves and toted them off to the leaf recycling center on Pleasant Avenue. The temperature rose to 77, I think the first day in the 70's for the year. I was able to actually raise a sweat while rearranging the leaves. A first for the great outdoors this year. And tonight there is the sound of thunder in the air - our first thunderstorm of the spring.

I played tennis at Wooddale again tonight at 6:30. It was a good group and all were sufficiently motivated to make for some memorable points. We finished two sets, 6-4, 7-6, and no blood was spilled. We were visited by the hardcore Jerry, who usually plays on Monday, but took a breather tonight. He'll back in action on Thursday, he assures me.

There are only 36 hours until the anticipated return stateside of the former English teacher and part time traveler. We are hoping for good weather and smooth flying for the soon to be jet lagged KS.