Of course, Pete or someone with more experience might remind us that when the woods go quiet all of a sudden, there could be a predator nearing. I remember walking with him on a couple of trails where we both felt “watched.”

I do love it when the only sound is my footsteps crunching on frosty leaves. Thanks, Megan.

Hi Patricia – I always get very unnerved by early snow, too. It makes me wonder what we’re in for later in the season. This year the work didn’t seem so daunting – we probably only had about 8 hours worth, total, including the leaves. Machinery sure makes life easier. That and the permission I gave myself to keep perennials standing for interest and critter cover. It’ll be a bigger mess to clean up in the spring. Thanks.

Hi Barbara – I know what you mean about wood heat – it seems warmer and cozier, doesn’t it? I’ve found even in newer houses that forced air systems have numerous cold spots. It’s even more apparent in this house, which was added onto by a self-appointed energy expert. I can’t believe some of the stuff this guy did; a real Rube Goldberg. I hope the warmer temps allowed you to get things put to bed around your place. Thanks.

Hi Lori – Yes, we are blessed to be able to do what we like for the most part, although I chafe at the local City bureaucracy from time to time. This year we had to pay a fee and submit a plan for alternative use of a hillside we have. Evidently if you don’t have your property as all lawn, you’re a heretic. I think it’s just a way to extort more income for the City. I can’t imagine living in a neighborhood with covenants and an association. Thanks.

Hi Cath – Do winter pansies bloom all winter, or are they dormant until springtime? I love pansies. It sounds like you’ve got plans solidified for emigrating. Have you narrowed down your choice of countries? Our housing market seems to be improving a tad. Sold signs are appearing a little faster than in the past couple of years, so maybe that’s an indication. Thanks.

Hi Hilary – Welcome to PassingThru! I wish I could claim the protect-a-rose idea, but it evolved over time and error. Most gardeners cover their roses with styrofoam cones packed with leaves or other mulch here in Minnesota. Ugly, but necessary. I found that this method resulted in mildew because there was nowhere for moisture to evaporate. Others use the “Minnesota tip” method, where they dig the rose out, place it on its side and then cover it with mulch to protect. That seemed like too much work. So I was looking at my hot water heater’s thermal blanket one day and had an idea. This rose plant likes it.

And yes, there are major differences in the way a fire looks, smells and feels depending upon the wood. Birch is my favorite, but it’s harder to come by and more dear in price, too, if you’re buying it. That’s why when Pete sees it available on Craigslist, we run for it. Glad you enjoyed the poem! Thanks.

I love the poem .. and the thought of the wood burner .. gently emitting its woody tales .. some woods have such evocative scents .. and obviously that warming place for toes and backsides – not too close: many a year have I spent by our family Aga in the old days ..

Enjoy the satisfaction of the garden well planned and tucked up for the next few months – before the bulbs burst through ..
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
.-= Hilary´s last blog ..A is for Apple – an Apple a day keeps the doctor away … =-.

I normally wouldn’t bother but I want to put the house on the market at the beginning of next year, so a little colour might be more attractive to potential buyers. I have to say I’m dreading it – we need to sell the house to afford to emigrate. I just hope the market picks up a little.

Thank you both for sharing pictures and a peek into your seasonal change.
.-= Lori Hoeck´s last blog ..‘Why do I need self defense? I live in a safe area.’ =-.

I still haven’t had a chance to put “things to bed” outside as our weather has been so unpredictable (and cold). In fact earlier today I sat at my desk and watched tiny snowflakes come down. The forecast says we’re suppose to have a bit of a warm spell (high 50′s) coming up, so at that time I hope to do the last of the raking and get the yard ready for the Spring.

Your wood pile picture reminds me of when I was a kid. We had a wood shed. I wasn’t too good at chopping, but actually enjoyed stacking the wood into neat piles. There’s something to be said about a wood heat. I can’t describe it, but I know you know what I mean. Right now it’s sounding real cozy.

P.S. Kudos to Pete for the beautiful photos.
.-= Barbara Swafford´s last blog ..Let Your Blog Work For You – 25 Ways =-.

Nice post…
.-= Patricia´s last blog ..Book Review: Traveling with Pomegranates ~Kidd & Taylor =-.