We are still sitting under a deep layer of snow, though we ventured out on foot to get our papers this morning from the shop in the next village.  The roads aren't too bad, though our lane remains tricky.

 

 

Though it hasn't melted at all, the occasional gust of wind and the weight of the snow itself causes the occasional small "avalanche" and we sat yesterday lunchtime, watching it falling through the branches of the apple tree.  The end result is all rather messy.

 

 

Yet, here and there, nature is proving stronger than imagined.  This hellebore in the kitchen border has pushed its way through the snowy crust and stands tall, defiant.  Its mates alongside remain tucked up for now.

As do we.