We’re hibernating.

Actually, this wouldn’t be so bad if there was any snow on the ground.  But there is no snow here.  So the ground is working on freeze-drying, rather than just freezing.

I have to be impressed with the cellular mechanics of the broad-leaved evergreens (rhododendrons/azaleas).  During the rain (and 55 F) last weekend the leaves were wide open and flat.  In the deep freezes immediately before and after they are either limp and loosely curled (rhododendrons) and stiff and tightly curled (azaleas).  It is an impressive bit of bio-mechanics. It would be interesting to see what exactly is happening on the cellular level.  Do the leaves always curl in the same direction? I would think so…I am not, however, going to go out and look!