A Splash Of Sunny Brightness

Here's a springlike pic for all who've had a dull wintry day. It's a Mahonia japonica that is not only bright and cheerful but has the sense to flower in January when there's not much colour about so that it can show itself off with little competition.

It's been so bitterly cold and windy despite a fair amount of morning sunshine here. I only managed a short walk round the village and had hot-ache in my ears when I got home again (and yes, I had been wearing a hat over my ears).