Hello, New Tree!

Exactly 11 days after our large old maple was chopped down from our front yard, we planted a new red maple to take its place.

I didn't want to waste any time. Our yard has looked so empty since the former disappeared. Even though  we won't get the full benefits of the shade and height of its replacement for many years, I couldn't bare to see such a large empty space for long.

We planted a Matador maple on Sunday, which already stands taller than we do. It's on the opposite side of our yard, so it will change the entire look of our space. One of its key features is long-lasting red, red leaves in the fall, so I'm looking forward to having something to look forward to as the weather grows colder!

Goodbye, Tree

Wednesday was a sad day in our household -- the large maple in our front yard was cut down.

We made the decision to do so last fall, but it didn't make the day any easier. I know we did the right thing -- a large branch would fall down every year or two, and we held our breath anytime there were high winds. Not to mention that it grew right above our sewer line, causing another set of problems! Still, the tree towered over our house and was a big part of our lawn.

Almost a week later, I'm still down in the dumps when I walk down our street and see the big empty spot. But I do like the clear view from our porch and windows, and it's nice not to worry that a giant limb will bust through our roof. We have enough firewood to last for years. Plus, we are already narrowing down what kind of tree we want to plant next and hope to have it within the next month. Time rolls by.

A Weekend Apart

It was boys vs. girls in our household this past weekend, and each team is pretty sure that they're the ones who had more fun.

The boys went on a scout camping trip. The weather could have been better -- they woke up to a layer of snow on Sunday morning -- but Atticus had a blast. They learned about maps and how to use a compass, slid down a mossy rock like a slide and ate plenty of snacks. The weather was chilly, but they had rented what sounds like a primitive cabin, so at least they were cozy.

Edith and I stayed behind and had big plans to eat sushi and donuts -- mission accomplished. We went shopping and finally watched several episodes of the newest version of The Babysitters Club TV adaptation. (Surprisingly good! Now I'm sad it was canceled after only two seasons.)

Atticus returned home tired and with a pile of muddy clothes. Edith was ready for the boys to go on their next campout about as soon as they got back. How convenient that Paul and I each have a kid aligned to our interests!

Hints of Spring

March is here, and we actually have gotten some spring-like weather already.

Last week Atticus and I spent the time during Edith’s archery class outside at the park. And yesterday reached about 70, so I dug out the cushions for the porch furniture out of the basement … and we actually used them. What a nice change to being stuck indoors. 

Alas, I awoke this morning to a temperature just above freezing, and the overnight temps for the next week look even lower. What do they call a day like yesterday — fool’s spring? Call me a fool, but I’ll take it. I’m ready to bask in the sunlight again, and stay outside late. (Yay for the time change this weekend.) it’s always a long winter.