This variety of willow (that I’m not entirely sure of…) is one of my favorite early spring “poppers”. Its tight catkins burst into fireworks-like explosions of fuzzy yellow wonderfulness.
Nikon D600, Nikon 24-120mm lens @ 120mm, ISO 640, f/14, 1/320″ exposure.
John Hadden Photography 
April 27, 2015 at 7:57 am
You’re absolutely right John – we’re chasing the same spirit of the season. This looks like the American willow, Salix discolor, which I chose yesterday as well!
April 27, 2015 at 9:47 am
And red maple buds as well! Great to see the world coming back to life. Spring ephemeral wildflowers are next! And thanks for the willow ID!
April 27, 2015 at 11:24 am
Saw trailing arbutus and red trillium/wakerobin yesterday – I’ll put them up soon.