Some Spring indicators

I noticed just a few days ago that there is still enough light at five in the afternoon to take pictures, and that for me, heralds the beginning of Spring. There will still be some dark rides to and from school, but at least on Thursdays (my early day), Black Jack and I can have our walk without her light-up collar.

On the way home yesterday, the light mist and pastel sky gave the Lions Gate crossing a tranquil feel.

A short time later, Black Jack and I walked along the False Creek seawall. The mist had lifted, and birds sang loudly from their hiding spot behind these bushes.

There was soft yellow drifting behind the trees and through the girders of the Granville Bridge.

We met Joe, one of Black Jack's favourite neighbours, on the way back home. Joe recently lost his beloved Katie, a Dalmatian, but in spite of his heartbreak, has found room in his heart to help out many of the residents of my building with dog walking. Joe is adored by every dog in the neighbourhood.

I turned, just before we arrived home, to take this picture. Again, pastels seemed tranquil, and I didn't pick up on the fact that they were a prelude to..

this sight, taken from my balcony, only a few minutes later.

Another of those dramatic sky changes that catch me by surprise every time.

Last Sunday, Black Jack and I walked along the seawall. I watched a couple of lone ducks, and saw a few that seemed to have already chosen mates. It was a fairly dull day, and I hadn't planned to take my camera out of its bag, until I saw this small rock, with barnacles and blue shell bits, artfully arranged by Mother Nature.

More samples of her artwork.

We walked across Beach Avenue, heading towards Lost Lagoon, when this sleeping heron on the top of a street lamp caught my eye.

Suddenly the heron looked up, offended by a seagull that flew a little bit too close.

It gave a warning, and then settled back to sleep.

There were lots of ducks on the lagoon, but this Common Merganser seemed especially beautiful.

He appeared to be searching for a mate. I have learned that throwing the head back like this is one strategy used to impress the girls.

It seems illogical to me that any bird this beautiful could be referred to as..

common.

A Fox Sparrow (I think) was busy foraging for food.

A Blue Heron paced back and forth, showing off his splendour.

Seagulls arranged themselves in constantly shifting patterns on this tree.

The one on the left seemed to fly backwards, forced to give up its place to a new arrival

A Lesser Scaup, perhaps?

My first cherry blossom sighting of the season!

I am always amazed at the thoroughness and vigour of bath time.

The seagull on the left seems about to turn over on his back.

The camera worked in mysterious ways here. I have no idea why the background was so dark, but love the way it highlighted the seagull.

These Primulas seemed to be thriving.

I cannot name these lovely yellow ones, but their message is clear.
Spring is definitely around the corner. And, it's Friday! Have a wonderful weekend everyone.