After the Storm

Yesterday's snow, freezing rain and rain left their mark on the city. Branches coated in ice sparkled in the sunshine. A thick slippery crust lay on top of the snow.



While it may not be  healthy for the bushes, the effect was quite magical as each bush and tree shimmered.



While this area looks pristine, it is quite different at street corners, where frigid water collects making crossing streets an adventure. One has to carefully plot the route around these ponds, through the slush. And woe betide the pedestrians who get splashed by the motorists who seem to aim for the slush sending up a wake of dirty icy spray.

Under Wraps

As our balmy winter continues, these bushes stand wrapped up against the ravages of snow that hasn't come. They stand in a row, like children lined up by their taller teacher. As they wear their winter wear, I shed my heavier coat for a lighter one and walk with a spring in my step in shoes.

February 6 and no appreciable snowfall in the forecast.

Leaves are Starting

Leaves are Starting, a photo by susanvg on Flickr.

Each day I check for signs of growth. Some bushes are starting to sprout the beginnings of leaves. It is a time of greening. Sun, rain and longer days are nurturing new growth. Wouldn't it be nice if it were so easy to identify the elements to help students grow? But education does not have an easy formula and is certainly not one way for all.

Bush Wrapping

Bush Wrapping, originally uploaded by susanvg.

My friend, Jen, opened my eyes to the possibilities of wrapped bushes. Some Montrealers do this to protect them from the ravages of winter. When snow gets heavy it can break branches.

You have to use your imagination when looking at these new formations, This lot seems to be standing around - waiting for a bus? or just chatting (or is that chattering) about the weather. As winter progresses the shapes can change - sagging and stooping.

Here are a few more. What do they make you think of?

Day 332: Under Wraps

Day 332: Under Wraps, originally uploaded by susanvg.

This photo is dedicated to my friend, Jen, in PEI. She opened my eyes to the whimsical nature of bush wrapping. Here in Montreal we have cold, snowy winters and many people wrap up bushes to protect them from the weather and the salt that is spread on the roads. When you let your imagination go you can see beyond the wrapped bush to see figures, animals and much more. I think this bush actually has a face. Is this "man" carrying sheaves of wheat to the mill to be ground? or is this a Native American with feather plumes decorating his deerskin outfit?

Jen has taken a whole series of photographs of these "creatures." It is interesting to see the change in shape as the snow helps to reshape them over the winter. I'll be photographing more as the seasons change.