
So ten days have passed since I last mowed the lawn, and I don't mind the break one bit. Dandelions compete with ajuga and spring beauties, along with a surprisingly large crop of violets. In another neighborhood we might be cited for violating homeowners-association rules, but here in the village those "weeds" are colorful heralds of spring.

The nest is empty right now, but I'll keep a respectful eye on it over the next few weeks.
My village neighbors will understand why I'm closing this post with one more image of the violets blooming at the moss-covered base of our ash tree. This simple woodland flower symbolizes our community, and we hold it in high regard.
