The 2025-2026 registered as one of the snowiest and coldest. The snow from January 25th lasted well into February, encased in a layer of ice. The term “snowcrete” was born.
When outside walking to the chickens or checking the flower field, I managed the “snowcrete” like everyone else in Maryland. Carefully stepping into existing footprints or gliding along the top.
Until I couldn’t. That’s me crawling.
I thought I could get to the willows on a sunny day. After a few steps, I realized I was sliding down the hill. Knowing at my age, a broken anything would be the worst possible scenario, I dropped to all fours. As Archie watched, I crawled to the safety of the black top.
Most days, I was inside, enjoying the amazing Amaryllis. This beauty is named Dutch Belle.
Other days, I began to start seeds.
The tiny seeds go into trays with a good soil mix, sprinkled with perlite. I gently water and top with a dome lid to keep things moist. I started Feverfew, Rudbeckia and Statice.
A question I get asked a lot is what to plant. I always suggest native plants that can be used for cutting stems. Find them HERE. A great resource for finding bird friendly native plants is the Audubon website.
After many weeks, the snow melted and on a the first 50 degree day, I cut the willow. These willow were planted from just sticks in 2020. Willow are so easy to grow. I have some tips HERE.
Willow Bunches are available now. Ten stem bunches, can be used to plant your own willow or dried and kept for months/years! People can’t resist touching them.
Another reminder that Flower Subscriptions are available and there are still a few spots left. It’s a nice treat to share with a neighbor or family member. Spring flowers are the best.
Staying warm and cozy has us making tea. During the winter, homemade Chai hits the spot. This is the recipe I’ve used. It’s best when I’m feeling chilled and need some warmth.
As I write this, the snow has returned. I can’t complain, I love the blanket of warmth it offers the ground.
Archie on the other, has had enough. Dachshunds don’t like wet bellies.
“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently? And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says, ‘Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again’”.
Lewis Carroll “through the looking -glass”