Last night winter left a thin crust of snow and ice over my woodland paths, as well as crystalline patches on the road and lawn. The sun was bright this morning, and I walked outside to dutifully record evidence of frigid temperatures and the first bit of snow we have had this year. 
He's still here! This old rubber lizard has appeared on my blog before. He grows more fearsome with age.
Red twigs of Acer palmatum 'Sango-Kaku' stand out against the frosty background.
Are you cold yet? After I took all these photos, I was happy to come inside for a cup of hot coffee! We need these cold temperatures, but soon I will be looking forward to spring.