A little iced rosemary, anyone?

Last week we had a mixed bag of weather. This time of year in south central PA is .... interesting, to say the least.

Up until this most recent round of frigid weather, we'd been enjoying some fairly temperate stuff. But then they dove into winter again.

Shortly after this picture was taken, we had a few days of thaw. Naturally, they coincided with the move here, with trucks all over the yard, sliding in the mud. The last couple of small loads had to be hand-carried like a bucket brigade.

Although it can be dangerous when things are coated with ice, it is one of the most beautiful displays that nature puts on. Here on the hill, all of the trees were covered, glittering in the sunlight. Nearby willows bent to the weight, and their long boughs shimmered brightly.

This little rosemary was so perfectly encased. It has made it through the winter so far (usually a 50/50 proposition in this zone), and the ice kept it from getting colder. It might just last through the final bit of winter.

Today I'll probably roast some chicken. I'll go snip a few sprigs of rosemary to lay beneath the chicken in the pan. It imparts such a delicious flavor to the meal, and it is so easy!

While I'm out there (slipping and sliding in the mud), maybe I'll see some chickweed too.

Thank goodness March has finally arrived. This has been a milder winter for us, but I'm ready for some steamed and buttered nettle leaves. I can't wait for the lambs quarters to grace the table. And most of all, I look forward to just being able to walk outside and feel the sun on my arms, get some seeds and plants in the ground, and get some growing going on!