We have been receiving small but more numerous rain events.  This past week, we received 0.36 inches of rain.  This is still less than average on a per diem basis but not unwelcomed. If this per diem rate continues, we will receive a little of 2 inches of rain where the monthly average of 2.88 inches.  The low wet spot is soft and I am able to make a foot print.  The Forsythia bush has developing buds that appear healthy.

We appear to have lost a couple of Holly Bushes but the rest of our vegetation.  If this was the growing season, our vegetation would be stressed.

We sighted a Ruby-crowned Kinglet today.  We have spotted one each of many winter seasons.  There are several dozens of Red-winged Blackbirds at our feeders.  We have seen Cow birds, Juncoes (not as many as previous years).  Hurricane Helene may have destroyed a large area of Junco nesting areas in western North Carolina.