Wednesday, March 4, 2015

A Respite from Winter




In my informal polling, EVERYONE is tired of Winter.

(okay, so I really didn't ask that many people...and I certainly didn't interview the snow lovers)

But, the snow has been around FORever.  It's no longer pristine and beautiful.  The huge piles have become grey and ugly...and completely immovable.  And, the forecasters are calling for more.

We really need a break from the cold and a change from the white landscape would be nice, too.  But, since it's just the two of us working here on the hill, we can't just pick up and head to the islands or someplace warm...or even be gone overnight...

The next best thing is a visit the local nursery.

Yesterday while running some other errands, we took a little side-trip to Milmont Greenhouses.  It was such a treat to breathe in the warm, moist air...and the scent of the damp earth.  The bright colors almost hurt our eyes after days and days of squinting against the harsh light reflecting off the snow. Listening to the water fountains was so relaxing...I could have stayed all afternoon.  (but, there were chores to do...)

Just in case the Winter has gotten to you, too...here's a little dose of Springtime color.

LOVE the water features!

don't know what this one is called
I really like the color!


begonias

cyclamen


gernaniums

green orchid

hyacinths almost ready to bloom

hydrangea

orchid

oxalis
sold as shamrocks for St. Patrick's day


cheerful pansies

purple oxalis

Red Geraniums


Isn't this little succulent amazing?

We purchased a couple of pretty plants to brighten up the windowsill and headed back to the hill with a renewed hope that Spring truly is coming. Although, I admit, that is hard to believe when you look at the view.

view of the mountains from the nursery

Think Spring...it's only 16 days...12 hours...and 52 minutes! (give or take)

 THIS certain brightens up the windowsill!

Hope this brightened your wintry day, too.



5 comments:

  1. I think we all feel the same Barbara, so you can add me to your poll.

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    1. Duly note, Pat.
      I have seen some signs of Spring, but they will be covered by snow by the end of the day.

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    2. Duly note, Pat.
      I have seen some signs of Spring, but they will be covered by snow by the end of the day.

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  2. You had me thinking - I assumed Spring would have officially started on March 1, like our Autumn started on March 1. Upon reading your post - my research tells me historically spring starts on the day of the vernal equinox, which usually occurs on the night of 20/21 March. Well there you go - I learn something new everyday.

    Loving your blog, and learning so much about farming on your side of the world. Lets hope that the weather changes for you real soon so you can really enjoy your Spring.

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    1. I don’t know why we don’t recognize the meteorological seasons here in the US. Seems I might have a subject for research myself. With the weather forecast including a possibility of 10+ inches of snow today, I might even have the chance.
      Actual Spring seems like an elusive dream at this point. We are located at an elevation of 2000 feet. (oddly oxymoronic that we live in the Valley) We tend to stay cold here for much longer than other areas in the early Spring. It will be April before it is consistently warm…and we have had a freeze here as late as the end of May! This year is going to be interesting to say the least.
      Thank you for reading and commenting. I love that the internet allows contact with other folks around the world without ever leaving home. I have learned so much from these contacts. …and I love your photos!
      Have a wonderful day!

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