Signs of spring...

I have a few favorite signs of spring... I suppose most people do.  One is when the deciduous trees get that first blush of green, right before the leaves open up. And when the ducks arrive at the pond, ready to raise a new family. And of course, brand new Thoroughbred foals at the horse farm just down the road.

But I think my favorite is when the tulip fields are bright with blooms, which show up at the Pike Place Market by the bucketful. We always time a visit to the city in April, and I bring home an armful to brighten the house.



A friend of my niece has a farm stand on Vashon Island, growing gorgeous flowers from spring to fall. Lately she's been posting pictures of ranunculus, something I have never grown. It's too late for bulbs, which around here should be planted in the fall. I'll be working on that (and on gardening friends and family who might have bulbs to spare).

Check out the Olive Farmstand on Instagram... you'll be blown away.