vernal means “spring”

Please view in Large View.

From snow that melted yesterday, vernal ponds pool in the forest. They reflect the sky and the bare tree tops, and little flowers chill and shiver along their frothy green edges.

Like a neighborhood bar, these ephemeral ecosystems are happening, social places. Frogs croon on the jukebox. Dressed up salamanders make their moves. Ticks trot. Fairy dragonflies dance together and stuck-up crocuses turn their noses up at the usual scum. Soon it will be last call. Buds will bloom and a canopy of dark foliage will turn out the out the lights.