As I peek out the window, I see flurries swirling about the wind, determined not to fall to the ground.  They seem to be in no particular hurry.  They are definitely taking the long road.  This is the part of winter I truly dislike.  The remnants of snow have become an ashen gray – no longer pristine, white or glistening.  It’s as if we are stuck somewhere between winter and spring.  Spring has won quite a few battles this year, but according to the weatherman, winter’s gloves are off and the battle rages on.  Somehow, winter always wins the war.  Albeit a weird one thus far, this is winter, and I will savor it.

Before the first substantial snowfall was beaten down by Monday’s sun and warm temperatures, we took advantage of its bounty and went sledding.  There were quite a few kids, some with new fangled sleds, some with snowboards, and it was fun, but there was something missing; the saucer sled.  Not one kid had a saucer sled, or a variation of one.  Nothing, absolutely nothing, beats a good, old fashion saucer sled.  I must be showing my age.

As the snow began its retreat, it left behind a telltale, somewhat caustic sign – salt.  Oodles and oodles of rock salt along the curbs and public parking lots.  Sure, I like my highways bereft of any snow, clean and dry to the bone but not on the sidewalks and certainly not in my own driveway, which has none.  Rock salt is effective, but it’s also very corrosive.  It’s harmful not only to metals but also plant material and soil.  With that being said, I say “hold the salt” or at least cut back.  Snow doesn’t last forever, and with a little shoveling/plowing and some sun, the snow and ice is sure to retreat without posing a threat to your lawns and gardens.

On a final note, I am happy to report that my Paper Whites have completely taken off and will be in full bloom within a week.

Best wishes,

Kim Sweeney