April arrives cold and clear. My walks are much easier after a series of warmer, rainy days. The sidewalks are clear of ice and snow but snow still clings to the ground in places, reluctant to leave. The melting has revealed a ground compressed with debris and withered grass. Yet the sun brings the promise of new life. After the long sleep of winter, the world is slow to awaken in these chilly days. But the sun is tapping our shoulder and soon it will bring the warmth we need to spring back to life.

Morning glow on the dome.

Without the frost the garden will soon start to thrive.

The snow is retreating, even in the cemetery.

The quartz snow sculpture continues to melt away. Now it sprouts a mushroom look.

A study of bench and shadow.

Snow retreats as the sunshine bursts forth.

The way down.

At the end of the day, I spotted these tiny sprouts. Signs of spring and new life.