I was not able to vote on this challenge, but if I had, I probably would have given you a 6 or 7.
My first impression is that they look like hands coming out of the snow. They look like a burried person trying to get out of the cold. The style reminds me of Tim Burton's "A Nightmare Before Christmas". I like the simplicity of this photograph, and the amount of negative space you have chosen. The detail in the snow is just perfect, and the plant all by itself balances the photograph nicely. I really don't have anything to add in terms of improvement. Great shot. I'm not surprised it finished so high.
If you need any clarification on any of my comments, please feel free to pm me. It might take some time for me to get back to you.
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