The crocus is a harbinger of spring, opening while there are still chilly days and freezing nights. They usually reside in dormant gardens, providing tidy patches of color in a mostly brown landscape. My friend planted them, not just in her garden beds, but also here and there in her front lawn. They are spread out like wary people in these times of Covid, with plenty of space between individuals and family groups. How delightful to see them in the afternoon when their lavender-edged petals glow. The small tree that casts linear shadows across them will soon leaf out, but by then, the crocuses will be resting, waiting for the next spring.