Musings from the North Country.........

The Nor'easter is finally on its way out. This, in the hamlets of northern New England, is often called the "crowning" snow. That which tops off the snow banks that are already reaching up to the pre-Spring sun begging for warmth. I have been fortunate! The majestic Presidential Range of New Hampshire's White Mountains have shadowed the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont from this stubborn storm. It has also afforded me the opportunity to sit back, before the woodstove, and plan the garden that I perceive to be in full glory within the next 75 days or so.

Some of you might be more fortunate. But, for the most part, this is a time to fondle soil and gently tuck it into peat pots pressing a small delicate seed into its center. Not too deep, not too much water, a little warmth and then, "tada", the seeding emerges. Vulnerable but ready for your gentle hand, the sun and finally that well-worked bed within your garden.

I have written and edited the list of seeds for the season. I have sketched with colored pens the beds of Sweet 100's, lettuces of all shapes and colors, peas that will climb and climb from the moment they are planted until July 4th when they will sit on a plate alongside the traditional filet of salmon that will christen the start of the "warm" season.

For you in the South, I know, the soil is warming. Here in the North winter continues to play with our minds. But, the snow, as deep as it is will eventually relent. It will recede slowly, as the tide ebbs along the shore. It will be a distant memory. What we must remember, now is the time.......to let the games begin!