Out in a break among rain showers, I saw bright yellow buds of Eranthis hyemalis, about to open. I added the tag 'or persistence,' because I planted these 3 times before they decided to stick around and thrive in my garden. No crocus yet, but PC Iris Premonition of Spring is putting up new buds, and has been doing so since before the winter solstice, and there are daffodil buds and foliage throughout the garden. Two Galanthus are also up and about to open flowers. The first time I planted Eranthis, I think the bulbs were already dead when I planted them, from a local garden shop. The second time, they were in too hot and dry a spot in summer. Third time: part shade, better soil, and the healthiest bulbs I could find, from Old House Gardens. Cheers, Kathleen Kathleen Sayce PNW Coast, WHZ 8, dryish cool summers & mild wet winters