instant spring.

For those living north of 60, here is another instant spring idea.

Select a large vase. Go on a walk and take your pruning shears. Find some poplar (preferably cottonwood) and willow. Select appropriate sized low-growing branches.

If you want to keep things looking beautiful, pretend you are pruning and cut just above an upward facing bud that will send a future branch in an upward direction away from the main branch. Does that make sense?

Fill vase with water and artfully arrange your branches.

The cottonwoods will leaf out in a few days and fill your home with that fresh new green smell. And yes, the willow will give you pussy willows.

Note: If you are allergic to these plants you probably shouldn't do this.

It's hard not to be envious of the flourish of spring that happens more quickly elsewhere.