the “official” herald of spring

The vernal equinox occurred two weeks ago (March 20th) by the calendar and two days ago we heard a flock of geese pass by during the early morning.
But now, spring “officially” has arrived at our Setter Lake – the yellow skunk cabbage (Lysichitum americanum) shoots are emerging from the lake edge’s soggy, organic soil. Alas, the deer are relived by this edible sign of spring.

Skunk cabbage shoots. The solitary yellow flower bud is the lone survivor of a nibbling deer.