In Good Company.

Jack and I shared our yard this morning with horses and a noisy rooster... two things I must admit I never thought would be my neighbors. To Jack and Henry this is normal. I often wonder - when they are adults will they appreciate open space, sustainability, chickens? or disregard it as "normal"? Henry is always quick to point out the snow-covered mountains and gorgeous landscape that comprises Vermont - to Jack and Henry this is home. Will this be the landscape that provides them peace when they are older? Or will they seek city energy for contrast? For now we will enjoy it, together.

Perennials: Something magical

This week we were treated to a taste a spring... a small sample, soon to hide again and return in April. But for this week, it was bliss.



Every year I am amazed that we have been without the warmth of the sun and the soft earth under our feet for months. This is the best time in the yard, no mental to-do list of weed, plant, compost, mow... But I wouldn't survive without all of those things. I could spend hours in the garden, without tending to anyone and thinking about nothing but the dirt beneath me.



Yesterday, jack and i spotted the first crocuses and daffodils of the season in front of the Congregational church. Their velvety yellow and purple are hard to miss. Jack commented that someone must of planted those very early in the season to already be blooming. When I explained to him that someone planted those many years ago and that every year they come up on their own, his comment was, "Well, they must be full of something magical!"

A few items on the 2010 outdoor to do (wish) list...
Extend the wildflower gardens - so easy to just let more of our grass grow, last year we were treated to many surprises. little effort - high impact
More vegetables? hmmm... this is a tough one. Our veggies didn't do too well last year, but I would love more lettuce - easy!
Stepping stones in muddy spots of backyard.
More magical perennials