I took the photograph above on January 31 during a rare snow event, which occurred during the coldest stretch I've experienced in the twenty years I've lived here. Last year at this date there were daffodils coming up. I also took the photo to be able to contrast the garden now with what it will look like in three or four months.

We weren't supposed to get this much snow, but I'm glad we did. Depending on specific location, the weather can vary a great deal from what's forecast. Looking out my window I'm reminded of the old Appalachian adage: the weather is what's on your fence post.