Snow and frigid temps notwithstanding, spring is here. I know, because the calendar tells me. I know, because the sun now sets farther north than it did in winter. I know, because the ladybugs are coming out of hiding. But mostly I know, because Mama Robin is back.

In late October, I saw a sign that colder weather was in the offing. The leaves were falling steadily and piling up in the garden. I like to leave a layer of leaves there, but with so many trees, there is such a thing as too many leaves, so sometimes I remove some of the excess.

When the name of this column changed to Nature Notes two years ago, it was so I could write about anything related to nature, not just plants or gardens. I had pushed the limits of “garden” anyway, but now the world was my oyster. Nature encompasses so many things.

Besides the pines, the spruces, and other evergreens growing in our landscapes right now, there isn’t much that’s green. But look a little closer and you can find the most beautiful emerald cushions of moss that somehow manage to survive winter’s onslaught.

Sadly, identity theft happens throughout the year – but some identity thieves are particularly active during tax-filing season. How can you protect yourself?