Crocus tommasinianus and C.t. 'Ruby Giant' are in flower underneath a hardy japanese maple. Galanthus nivalis (poking up through Phlox subulata) and G. elwesii (underneath the lilac) are in flower simultaneously. Eranthis hyemalis beneath the Aesculus parvifolia is also putting on a show and the spring flowering Colchicum szovitsii 'Tivi' in the rock garden is outstanding with the prospect of becoming even more so. Muscari azureum (flowering through the Cerastium tomentosum and Scilla mitschtschenkoana (beneath the roses) are just starting to show color. Iris reticulata cultivars (strawberry bed) have begun to flower. Fritillaria imperialis and Eremurus robustus (south east side of the house, against the foundation) foliage just appeared through the soil surface this weekend in response to warmer temperatures. Boyce Tankersley btankers@chicagobotanic.org Where the first hint of spring-like weather has brought out the honeybees, early spring bulbs and the witch hazels and the general attitude is "well, its about time".