Nothing like a foggy morning after a cold night.

Look how Oregon grape has taken it on as a rim of frost on the edges of her leaves.

The red colour is for keeping warm in the cold months. At her heart, it’s not so important, as you can see.

But out here in the sky where all the light is, well, it sure is!

The spikes on the leaves are colder than the leave itself, and focus the cold. Dissipate it, in a way. When water freezes, it gives off heat. Lots of it. The result is extra warmth for Oregon grape on a cold morning.

That’s how you thrive in a rough climate.

Our elders can teach us a lot. Maybe some day we’ll heat houses like this.