Dreaming of Summer

The snows this winter have been taking their toll. We have had over twice the average snowfall so far this year. It is hard to remember our garden being anything but white.life_in_maine_dreaming_of_summerThis is not a small pumpkin, but one of our heirloom tomatoes. We still have tomatoes in our freezer from last summer, but bringing in one of these fruit straight from the vine is very different—the rich smell and the sun-warmed flesh can only be experienced in the summer. A thick slice on a piece of freshly baked bread with a little ground pepper makes the perfect meal. Click on the image for a larger view.

 

Awaiting Spring

life_in_maine_waiting_springThis has been a long, hard winter (globally, this March was the fourth hottest on record, while the eastern US sat in unusual cold). The image on the left was taken in our woods on May 3rd, 2010. The picture on the right was taken in the same place last Sunday, April 27th. May 3rd is this Saturday. While I would not be disappointed in a miracle that could transform our woodland into something that looks like the first image, I am also not very hopeful. I am more inclined to think it will snow. Click on the image for a larger view.

Whisper of the Pines

life_in_maine_ir_white_pine2We have a beautiful Eastern White Pine just behind our house. The constancy of the evergreens through the winter gives a softness to that season, like a whisper saying that spring will return and the land will be green again. It is hardly surprising the pine is used to symbolize time and eternity in many cultures. Click on the image for a larger view.