winter

[shabbychick]

Winter is definitely here. We had a little snow today, though it's localized and not likely to stick. I've got a couple of pics here, one showing the sky in the direction the storm is moving and the other the sky in the direction whence it came. I've been sick since Xmas day and haven't felt like leaving the house, but I'm enough better today that I'm hoping the snow will start to melt soon so I can get to the grocery store. I found some great chicken recipes in the new Martha Stewart that I'm looking forward to trying. And if the snow starts melting on its own, I won't have to go out and shovel it. That's a bonus, too.

[RoseMary]

Very pretty winter pictures! I love to see pictures of snow--it all looks so clean and pure. Hope you feel much better very soon:)!

[shabbychick]

Well, our formerly blue sky has now turned gray again, and they've extended the winter weather advisory to 3 p.m. and have told us we may get another 2 inches. It's warming up at the moment and a bit of the snow is melting, but probably not enough. It's supposed to drop to 26 degrees by 5 p.m., and you can bet I won't be going out in that.

I'm cleaning out my pantry and have discovered like six bags of dried beans, so I'm not going to starve even if I can't get out to the store. :)

Luckily, I've got plenty of wine (for medicinal purposes, of course).

[Breezy]

shabbychick you made me laugh with the (medicinal purposes) line!:D
I love snow too and we actually got some for Christmas but it's almost gone now. I hope you feel better soon. Take care.:)

[Gigi]

Shabbychick- Love these pictures- could be postcards. Nice.

[mac78]

Hope you are feeling better Shabbychick. Our snow is gone now. All melted in our 50 degree temps. This weather is crazy. Although tonight back down to the teens and very windy. Those pictures are beautiful. I love snow....well I figure if it is going to be cold them I want lots of snow.

[shabbychick]

The snow is melted off most of the roads now, but it's still piled up on my lawn. It's been pretty cold here, but it's supposed to warm up some and then rain by the end of the week.

I'm feeling better than I was a few days ago, but I'm still a little headachy, and my voice is going. But I was well enough to go to my sister's house for a New Year's open house, which was a lot of fun. I wouldn't have felt up to hosting it, but it was fun to be a guest.

I love snow as long as I don't have to drive or walk in it. Around here the turns immediately to ice and takes forever to clear out, and no matter how much you prepare, the roads are simply undriveable. The sidewalks take even longer to clear out, as they are rarely shoveled or sanded, and the parking lots are just scary. The other day I drove to the store, and it was harder getting from the car into the store than it was driving on the roads. I know it's not fun to shovel snow, but you'd think they'd worry about old people falling and breaking bones in the parking lot. I try to pay attention to the weather reports and stock up on all the important stuff (like coffee and wine) before the snow falls.

[vintage girl]

We had snow down to 1500 feet here in Southern CA. Unfortunately we are lower than that, so no snow for us. My mom had a lot in Banning (about 50 miles away), and was thrilled about it. Today we just have rain, rain and more rain. I swear we are going to float away:eek: We had days of rain on end with a lot of flooding and mudslides. One of the stables about a mile from us is still under about 5 feet of water. Our little town made the national news with the horse rescue. We get a break from the rain for a day or two, just enough time to dry out a little bit, and back it comes. Today is my first day back at work since December 20th. Luckily I take the train so will not have to worry about a long commute in the rain.

[ChapterTwo]

We had about 15" (some towns not so far from here had 30"!) of snow over the holiday, but quite a bit melted over the weekend, with temps in the forties...I loved it! Today's only 34, but sunny...which is better to me than a 45 degree day that's gray and dreary. Oh, heck...let the truth be known - all I'm waiting for is Spring! :o

[shabbychick]

They're talking about some snow tonight around here and the possibility of significant snowfall midweek. Ooh...I could use a few days off! I went out and did my important shopping (coffee and wine, lol) so that I'm ready to be snowed in. And my new YakTraks, these stretchy things you put on the bottoms of your shoes so you can walk on ice, arrived today, just in time! I think I'm good to go for a winter storm!!

[Rory Bremner]

Sorry to boast, but it's summer here and it's beautiful........:p

[shabbychick]

LOL. It's okay; go ahead and boast. I've always wondered what it's like to celebrate Christmas during the summer. I grew up in LA, so we never had true winter weather for Christmas, but it wasn't the usual 110 degrees, either. Must be interesting.

[ChapterTwo]

Sorry to boast, but it's summer here and it's beautiful........:p

That's okay...we'll boast in June/July/August! :o Enjoy the lovely weather...

[koolmimi]

Yippee its snowing. I know some of you get snow on a regular basis during the winter, but here in Texas its a big deal. We may get 6 inches today. My dogs aren't to sure about it though. I have my provisions ready. Coffee, wine, homemade soup and chili in the freezer, and firewood for the fireplace.

[shabbychick]

It's snowing right now at my house, too, though I don't think it'll stick today. I know it's kind of silly, but I have always loved that pioneer feeling I get when I know bad weather is coming and I have my supplies all stocked up and no errands to run so I can just sit inside where it's cozy and relax. I'm sure the real pioneers didn't enjoy it that much in their uninsulated houses, but I've always loved stormy weather.

[Rory Bremner]

Yeah, it amused me growing up here, we typically had Christmas cards and all of the holiday paraphernalia covered with English snow bound imagery when it was hot as hell.

Never mind, I'm enjoying this window of opportunity and getting some jobs done around the home. Take a peak at my latest album, the dining room.

Oh, my sunflowers have come out this morning too.....a further lil tease guys....:p

[shabbychick]

Oh my gosh, your pictures are wonderful. What an incredible view you have! I suppose it actually is great to have good weather for gardening and home improvement when you also have time off for holidays. We definitely should be jealous now!

[Rory Bremner]

Thanks Shabby, I love your garden.

[koolmimi]

I have a question for those of you who have snow. How do you get your dogs to go potty in the snow? My German Shepard and Golden weren't a problem. In fact they liked jumping in the snow. My Schnauzer wouldn't set foot off the screened porch even with her winter coat on. I went out in the dog run to try to coax her out, but she just turned around and stood by the back door. While I stood there getting snow in my hair.

[Rory Bremner]

Hey all you winter bound folk, I just added an album of my garden, pictures taken a few hours ago. Hope this inspires, and remember, Summer is only a few months away!:)

[mac78]

Our dogs just walk off the patio into the snow and do their job and come right back in. If the snow is more than a couple inches deep we do shovel off the patio for them, and if we have several inches of snow accumulated, we shovel a big area in the grass so they can go and won't sink into the snow. ;)My dogs have always loved the snow and the kids would take them out and play in it with them. Sometimes when it is extremely cold out, the dogs will go to the back door to sit needing out, when we open the door and they get a wiff of the cold air they just turn around and walk away from the door. They always go back though sooner or later.:)

[ChapterTwo]

Rory - Your garden album was so lovely to see. January in the U.S. is the time when many of us start dreaming about getting back to the garden! I bought an older home in 2009 and there was/is so much work to be done on the inside, that I didn't get to pay as much attention to the outside as I would have liked.

The cabbage tree is so unusual, and I love the Pohutakawa tree - a pretty sight to see!

Please tell me what method you used to grow that gorgeous hydrangea from a cutting. Did you use rooting hormone?

Welcome! :)

[Rory Bremner]

Hey thanks,

I could only live in an older home, I've done brand new a decade ago and it just felt sterile. But, I do enjoy modern comforts too, so combining the "old with new" is ok in my book. My hydrangea, it was basic. A cutting from a very old plant, placed in very fertile soil and lots of water.

Regards,

Rory

[mac78]

Winter is coming back! Calling for 3 to 4 inches of snow tomorrow. YEA for me. Most of our snow is gone right now, all melted, barely a dusting on the ground. Only bad thing.....school may be closed. :(

[shabbychick]

Lucky you, Marie. The big snowstorm they were calling for this week is beginning to fall apart, so we probably won't get it, though they're calling for a couple inches tomorrow that will probably melt overnight. Personally, I was really looking forward to a couple of days off of school.

Rory, I'm jealous of the lovely pink color of your hydrangea. I like my purple one well enough, but pink would be even better. And your pink Christmas tree is incredible. Are the flowers sturdy enough that you able to use them in arrangements?

[koolmimi]

Thanks for the advise Mac. We shoveled out a spot in the dog run for them. I guess they need to smell the dirt and grass. The big dogs really like playing in the snow. My diva Schnauzer isn't a fan even with a coat or sweater on. It is still snowing here.

[Rory Bremner]

Cheers Shabby,

Yes you can, but not for very long as become a tad delicate after cutting.

Rory

[CohenCottage]

We got 6" of snow last night!!! This is the second snow in two weeks, which is very unusual for Ga. 4 out of 5 of our dogs love the snow, but our blind dog HATES it. He refused to go out to potty this morning until noon. The others love to play though.

[Breezy]

Rory your garden is beautiful! Could you send some warm air this way please?;)

[Rory Bremner]

Hey,

Thanks Breezy, I'll do my best.

Rory

[vintage girl]

Rory your garden is gorgeous. I also enjoyed looking at the pics of your house. Just beautiful:)

[Rory Bremner]

Thanks very much, hope it inspires you over winter.

[vintage girl]

I am one of the lucky ones who does not have much of a winter. I live in Southern California. But we have been colder than normal and have had a fair bit of rain the past few weeks. But today we are warming up and should be in the 70's by the weekend:D

[Rory Bremner]

Cool, Similar climate to us then, has been really nice and warm here.

[yarborough house]

Okay you have depressed me even more. :) The kids stayed home today for snow and now we found out they are out because more ice is being called for tomorrow- I want to go to Rory's house - anyone with me?

[shabbychick]

Okay you have depressed me even more. :) The kids stayed home today for snow and now we found out they are out because more ice is being called for tomorrow- I want to go to Rory's house - anyone with me?

Don't look at me. I was hoping for a snow day before our forecast turned to rain instead. :(

[Rory Bremner]

Cool, you're invited....beer, wine and bbq food required on admittance. :p

[Gigi]

Cool, you're invited....beer, wine and bbq food required on admittance. :p

How about Maryland blue crabs- at least it would go with the beer! :D

[Rory Bremner]

Book a ticket, you've got a priority placing!!:D

[mac78]

Sounds like a fun time to me.....Just really what would you do if us ladies showed up at your doorstep?;):D:eek:

We are waiting for our snow to begin. Supposed to have total accumulations of 5 to 7 inches today/tonight. YEA! I love the snow. We are straight east about 4 hours of Chicago. Unfortunately we just get missed from the lake effect snows. :confused:

[Rory Bremner]

Why, invite you all in, of course. Lol:p

[mac78]

Sounds like fun ladies. ;)

It is 4 pm and we have a little over 3 inches of the pretty fluffy stuff. :D

[shabbychick]

You're lucky, Marie. It's about 5:30, and I haven't got a flake yet. And they're saying it'll all turn to rain well before morning, more's the pity. Still, I saw some really dramatic video of the flooding in Australia, and it was just sad to see people's cars floating away in the rushing water. I guess I can be glad that if I haven't got snow, at least I haven't got flooding.

[Rory Bremner]

I've a brother who lives north of Brisbane. He said they haven't had flooding yet, but they're expecting it.

[mac78]

It is now 9pm, pry about 5/6 inches. I just went out and snowblowed the drive for the second time, hoping I won't have to do it again before the families show up. It is so pretty outside. The snow flakes are getting smaller, so it is pry starting to slow down. Supposed to get more tomorrow though.

[shabbychick]

I hope your brother will be safe, Rory. Does he live in an area likely to be inundated? Nature can sure turn around and bite you, can't it?!

[koolmimi]

It is down to 28 now. No more snow tonight. I love the crunch under your feet when you walk on snow. My husband took our Shepard and Golden for a walk today and they had a good time walking in the snow. I stayed home working on a quilt for my granddaughter and drinking hot cocoa.

[Rory Bremner]

Cheers Shabby, I think he'll be fine.

[shabbychick]

We had snow last night....at least three inches on my table outside...and even though it turned over into rain, it didn't turn early enough, so I got a day off school!!! Hooray! Now I can spend the day putting away all the Christmas stuff. I may not be so happy about this when I'm putting in an extra day in June, but right now, this is a great gift!

[RoseMary]

I also hope your brother will be safe, Rory. My aunt has a friend over there and the woman has already lost her home--thankfully, she and her three children are fine.

We still have snow on the ground from the winter storm on Sunday. I'm hoping it will melt off today. I love it when it first falls, but am soon tired of it.

[koolmimi]

We still have snow on the ground. Low last night was 14 degrees. Here are some pictures of my furry children.

[Gigi]

Koolmimi-- I love your furry children! Do I see three little ones? Each is adorable- and I'm sure full of personality too!

What fun in the snow- nice pictures.

[Rory Bremner]

Thanks RoseMary. So, what do people do when they're stuck inside by snow for a few months and it's no permitting for outdoor activities?

[vintage girl]

Cute doggies:D

[Breezy]

Rory that warm air never made it here - the high today was 16 degrees. ;)

[RoseMary]

Where I live, we can usually get outside most of the winter. Sometimes we even make it into the 60s! It's usually a back and forth kind of thing here in Arkansas. On cold days, it's coffee, hot chocolate, books, and the computer. I'm not sure how I would do with the white stuff on the ground for months at a time.

[Rory Bremner]

That's interesting folks. Where I live we get cold winds and rain during winter, it's dismal, but at least I not having to shovel snow off my driveway before I go to work I guess.

Oh, a nice 23 degrees C here today. :p

[vintage girl]

We hit 73 today and will be in the 80's by this weekend:D

[yarborough house]

Ughhh it was only 28 here today- but all the ice is gone- kids went back to school and life as i know it crept back to normalacy.
I am keeping my travelocity current on tickets to Rory's house..haha

I don't mind cold, just not crappy roads. I may not have plans to go out but I detest it when that control is taken away and I can't get out. I guess it is a power thing right?

It is supposed to be around 50-60 by the weekend that is good.

[CohenCottage]

I am officially dying of cabin fever y'all!!!! Day 4 of Snowpacalyse 2011. We had almost 9" on Sunday night, and now everything is an icy mess. UGA finally opened today at noon, but roads are still a mess. I haven't left the house in days and I'm starting to get twitchy...It's too icy to take the dogs and baby for a walk in the neighborhood.

[Rory Bremner]

Woke to a beautiful clear, sunny and warm day. Prime for walk along the beach and a drive out in the country.;)

[RoseMary]

Sounds beautiful, Rory! We still have snow on the ground, but I think it will all be melted by tomorrow, as we are finally starting to warm up a little.

We'll be planting our potatoes and peas next month. Just thinking about it makes spring seem closer:)!

[shabbychick]

We had snow yesterday. I even got a day off of school. It melted by noon, so I was able to go out to lunch with my sister in the middle of the week, which almost never happens during the school year. Now it's just rain for the forseeable future. Yesterday's snow day gave me a chance to get all those Xmas decorations taken down and packed away in the 15 boxes they came out of. I think I need to do some "editing" of my collection.

[mac78]

We are now awaiting for another cold front and winter storm, sounds like should be here beginning of next week. Was 29 degrees this mornign.

[Rory Bremner]

Hmm, batten down the hatches folks. I spent a wonderful sunny afternoon in Greytown, a little town 50 minutes north of Wellington. Famous for it's antique stores and hometown appeal. It was nice.

[shabbychick]

We are supposed to get lots and lots and lots of rain here in the next week, and now they're talking about some flooding (nothing like what's happening in Australia, but inconvenient for those in the flood plain). Our big problem now is going to be landslides since the ground is so soaked. The Amtrak train is routinely stopped by landslides in the winter when we get this much rain, as the tracks run along the bottom of a bluff that sloughs off and falls across the tracks. Lots of really nice, expensive homes are built along bluffs and their back yards get smaller all the time as the bluffs erode. It can get ugly around here. And winter has only just gotten started.

[RoseMary]

Sounds like folks in your area are in for a long couple of weeks, shabbychick. Sure hope everyone is safe and the mudslides aren't too bad.

We are in for a fairly mild 5-7 days with a little rain, but mostly partly cloudy skies and highs in the 40s.

Greytown sounds nice, Rory. My husband and I were talking this morning about a day trip to Eureka Springs (up north of us), once more spring like weather is here. It is an historic Victorian town with a lot of history, and also quite a few antique shops and restaurants. It's a nice place to spend the day.

[Rory Bremner]

How was your day trip to Eureka Springs Rose Mary?

[RoseMary]

I won't be going for another couple of months. We've decided to wait until we get some warmer temps so we can enjoy walking around the town.

[Rory Bremner]

So, how is everyone coping with the snow? I just received the latest copy of Cottages & Bungalows......reading it the garden with a nice cool GnT!:p

[chyna]

We still have the snow/ice from November which is fine as long as it isn't on the roads which unfortunately is on my street. The moron brother living at drug house thought it would be funny to dig deep ruts in the parking area on my side of the street while flipping an U-turn so now in order for me to park I have to whip into my parking space in front of my house. :mad: He came out giggling one day while I'm out trying to break up the high parts and I let him know how unhappy I was about the bottom of my car slamming down. Guess his sis got wind of it because she saw my hubby out one day and made a point to come across the street and apologize for her brother. I guess she lit into him about and let him know that she lives here and he is just staying with her.

We got freezing rain the other day and then it snowed this morning. Not alot though, maybe an inch or so. At least it was dry so it just flies off the car and roads (unless it gets packed down too soon).

In answer to the question of being snowed in for months on end. We here dont really get snowed in and usually the snow melts off a few times during the season but you just deal. I try to come up with little projects. Do things that don't involve opening doors or windows for ventilation which aren't many. Maybe make jewelry or something. Go roller skating, things you can do indoors. I don't ski but alot of people take advantage of the white stuff.:)

And don't forget the seed/plant catalogs and planning for the spring/summer.

[jabbrley]

We had 4" of snow in northwestern SC on Christmas, and 6-7" on Sun,January11th during the night. We were visiting family in Georgia, where we got 5" there. School was closed for the entire week in both places. Made for a nice visit with my teacher/daughter and grade schooler grandkids. Being a born and bred New Yorker, it seemed funny to have the whole world shut down around us, but all this southern living is still new to us. Anyway, we love snow, but don't need to be shoveling feet of it anymore!

[RoseMary]

Glad you had such a good visit with your family, jabbrley. In the south, we don't have enough of the road equipment to always keep everything going. Some winters--for years at a time--there isn't any snow or ice at all, so it would be a waste of money for states/counties to purchase enought of it and the upkeep would be expensive, too. The snow/ice doesn't usually last long and then everything goes back to normal. Welcome to the south:).

[Rory Bremner]

I was talking to someone in Michigan the other day, they were telling me that it got down to zero the previous evening!!!

[chyna]

We are finally getting some warmer temps and the ice/snow is melting away. Great to get rid of those blasted ruts the drug house brother did, however it still freezes at night so it is a skating rink once the sun goes down. Can't win no matter what. :D

[jabbrley]

Rosemary, thank you for the welcome to the south. We love it here. We've had at least one snowfall a winter since we moved here 4 years ago. I'm still surprised sometimes at the differences we encounter here, but we'll get there. I'm so completely peaceful here in the country and away from what USED to be country 20 yrs ago. I hope this place doesn't get overcrowded too soon. I'm loving being able to hear the 'quiet' and the birds and the fountain gurgling while we sit on the front porch!

[RoseMary]

Your area sounds very peaceful and beautiful, jabbrley. I hope it stays country for you. I live in the country, too and love it. Porch sitting is one of my favorite things:).

As for winter, our high today will be in the low 60s, then close to 70 tomorrow. Then possibly a snowstorm on Tuesday~gotta love the variety:).

[jabbrley]

Yes we were close to 70deg today too....with rain coming on Tues. Still, since we need the rain, we can't complain. I fully expect to see a bit more winter weather in Feb, before we start looking for Spring...but if Mother Nature decides to do something different, then we'll ride it out!

[mac78]

YIPPEE!~ Tues evening thru Wed calling for 12 to 18 inches of snow for NW Ohio and surrounding areas......we will see. We have gassed up the cars, have groceries and toilet paper bought, and are just waiting to see how right on the weathermen are this time. Been watching the Weather Channel today and it says the storm will impact 100 million people in 29 states. The last time we had a blizzard was in 1978, so it doesn't happen very often areound here.

Who else is in the path of this winter storm.

[Breezy]

Marie we are supposed to get snow/ice starting tomorrow. It's cold and gloomy outside right now and looks like it could snow anytime.
I hope that everyone everywhere has a safe warm place to go to get out of the cold.

[RoseMary]

Our ice and snow will start tomorrow, too. We're on the southern edge, so we won't be getting as much, but boy will it be cold! I'm so ready for spring!!

[koolmimi]

It was 72 over the weekend. Now 56. Cold front headed our way. Suppose to be in the teens at night for the next couple of days with sleet and snow.

I have a hair appointment tomorrow morning. Then I'll snuggle in for the duration. I will finish my granddaughters T-shirt quilt and work on some projects. I'll make soup and stew to keep us warm. My husband brought in wood for the fireplace.

[Rory Bremner]

A beautiful 22 degrees C in Wellington today! Sorry folks, I know this boasting will come back to bite me come winter time here:D

[chyna]

It was negative 4 this afternoon, not sure what it is right now but betting it is COLD!!! We were expecting 3-4 inches of snow but got something like less than inch so not a biggie. Just glad I don't live on the Hi-Line, it is cold and buried. The antelopes are starving and dying up there along with the deer, I bet the deer will come out better than the antelopes though.

Since our storms seem to intensify once they get east, buckle down girls.:)

[mac78]

Tuesday.....woke up to about 3 inches of snow. We are now under a Blizzard Warning. All schools are closed. My daycare kids are all here. I have muffins baked, breakfast over, and am now waiting on the next snow. Calling for 12 to 18 inches overall. :D I am keeping a log of how much snow we get and the times I check it. Going to be a fun couple of days.

[jabbrley]

Just rain in these parts...fine with us. The storm was predicted to be, and was, north of us. But...in our old home in NY, they were hit with an ice storm. Friends in Maine got 18" on top of what they already had. As for temps, my husband always says, "when you're cold, you're cold...doesn't matter what the t-stat says." Guess he's right about that.

~Kath

[RoseMary]

Marie, did you get all that snow?

Kath, I think your husband is right about being cold! I didn't realize the storm went all the way to Maine. My hubby's grandparents are in Bangor. Guess we'll try to call them this afternoon. Grandma's niece lives right next to them, so they have someone to take care of them. We'd love for them to move down here, but they are both in their 80s and they're not budging:(.

We got about 2" of snow with a layer of ice underneath~typical:rolleyes:~we hardly ever get just snow.

[mac78]

Nope, the storm was a fizzle.....We got about 15 hours of winds, guessing 6 to 8 inches of snow, it was hard to tell due to the blowing. Other than the "whiteout" conditions Tuesday evening/Wednesday night, I don't see how they could call this a blizzard. By Wednesday morning the winds were calm. The weather forecasters were way off on this one, they said we would get 12 to 18 inches, with 20+ possible in some areas. Didn't even come close.

[RoseMary]

We have four inches of snow on the ground this morning. Our high is supposed to be mid 30s, so maybe some of it will melt off. We have a 50% chance of snow tomorrow and then a storm coming in on Wednesday~I hope Mr. Groundhog's prediction is right--we'll see:rolleyes:!

[mac78]

Today.....3 to 5 inches of snow. Cancelled my plans today as you can't see the roads, snowing very hard.....and they don't plow until the snow is done. Guess I am stuck doing laundry and housework today.:(

[mac78]

So today it is literally freezing.....Windchills are -15 below 0......Florida is looking better everyday!

[RoseMary]

It is in the low 20s and temps dropping. We will get 5"-10" of snow out of this storm. Probably will warm up this weekend, so not so bad:). Come spring, come!!!

[mac78]

It is 0 temp with windchills -21 below zero....schools are delayed 2 hours for the cold temps. Me, I pulled my rocking chair in front of the fireplace and that is pry where I am going to plant my butt today with my daycare kids. I don't feel the best, can tell a bad cold coming on, and it is just down right cold....Oh where is springtime.

[RoseMary]

Sounds like a good plan, Marie! Sure hope your cold is a mild one~a lot of that going around right now.

It is 16 degrees here and will probably get up to about 28--a heat wave:p!! Anyway, maybe the sun will melt some of our snow. I want spring!!

[vintage girl]

It is sunny and breezy here today. Currently 55 degrees, but high is expected to hit at least 74 degrees:D I hope you guys start warming up soon:)

[ChapterTwo]

No matter what the weather today, in your neck o' the woods...

Thirty Seven days 'til S P R I N G, everyone!! :):D;)

[mac78]

No matter what the weather today, in your neck o' the woods...

Thirty Seven days 'til S P R I N G, everyone!! :):D;)

Aww, thanks....for that reminder......I can't wait.;)

[jabbrley]

Feels like Spring...or will before the day is over! We'll be in the 60's all week long here in the foothills of SC. LOVE IT!

I peeked at the gardens yesterday, which need major cleanup, since they didn't get it in the Fall. Iris, Lilies, Daffodils are up a few inches...and believe it or not, my beloved HOLLYHOCKS have leaves showing! 5 of them! Maybe there's hope afterall! The roses are pushing new leaves...
I'm still being cautious about high hopes, though...it could still turn cold again. How is the weather in your corner right now?

~Kath

[mac78]

NW Ohio, in the 40's but windy. This week possibly up to 50 degrees. The snow is melthing and it is becoming a mess outside. I am betting when the snow all melts, I will see my daffodills peeping thru. A true sign of Spring here.:)

[ChapterTwo]

Yesterday we had a lovely day in the fifties, with a clear blue sky and bright sunshine. Today, at around 6:30 a.m., I am reminded that it's still winter - the temperature is 26 degrees and my steam radiators are busily working (thank goodness). :o But we do know that spring is around the corner, and that is a happy thought! :)

[koolmimi]

It is suppose to be in the low 70's today. Yesterday was beautiful. I am itching to go to the nursery and get plants. My daughter keeps reminding me that they had snow last March. Sigh....guess I'll just look at catalogs and dream.

[RoseMary]

This weather does make it hard to resist planting:)! We are having 60s and 70s the rest of the week, too, so I'm loving every minute of it! I'm going to be buying some blueberry bushes and raspberry plants later this week, and maybe some strawberries. I can go ahead and put all of them out, now.

I hope there is no more snow , but The Farmer's Almanac is predicting a big winter storm near the end of March:(.

[farmgal67357]

We actually got into the 70's today! WooHoo! The snow is finally all gone, leaving mud behind. Still, the ground got a good drink to prepare for Spring!

[Breezy]

We've been having beautiful weather too - upper 60s low 70s. I hate the thought of snow again.
RoseMary I sure hope the Farmers Almanac is wrong on the big storm prediction!:eek:

[RoseMary]

Linn, I'm sure hoping that it's wrong, too! I'm ready to leave winter behind:).

[vintage girl]

I just came back from Nevada. Weather was cold and damp, and on Sunday it snowed for about 4 hours. It was so beautiful. I have not been in snow in years, so it was a real treat. I woke up about 5am and noticed the snow. I ran outside and just stood in it for about an hour. It was dark and quiet and I felt like I was the only person on the planet. Until my chiwi woke up and came looking for me. It was so funny to watch her in the snow. She has never seen it before and was afraid to step in it. We came home yesterday to clear skies and temps in the high 60's. Will hit the mid 70's and than cool down and rain this weekend:)

[mac78]

Sunday afternoon it started freezing rain here (NW OHIO), then on Monday, it started snowing, and when it stopped we had about 7 inches of the white powdery stuff, on top of a layer of ice. Very pretty, but I am ready for summer here. ;)

[katey]

I haven't experience winter yet. I'm willing to relocate there to have new experiences. Just wondering if there are a lot of job opportunities there.

[Rory Bremner]

Ours arrived this month........Rain and wild southerlies off the Cook Straight......Fires are blazing :)

[shabbychick]

The summer solstice parade has happened here, but we still have rain, rain, and more rain. Local weathermen say summer doesn't really start here until July 5th. We'll see. I could sure use a 100% sunny day.

[vintage girl]

We had a beautiful weekend in Southern CA. It was warm on Saturday, but cooler and just a bit overcast in the morning on Sunday. Highs never got over 80. Hubs was in Nevada visiting his parents, and it is already in the high 90's and over a 100 there:eek: At 9am it was already almost 90. But I guess you could say that was not bad, because the week before he went, they had a day where they hit 117:eek::eek:

[ChapterTwo]

because the week before he went, they had a day where they hit 117:eek::eek:


Oh, MY!

The hottest weather I've every endured was in Palm Springs back in the Seventies. It was 114 and the tar was bubbling at the edge of the street!
But as they always say, there was no humidity (as we have in the East).

I'm so glad to hear you had an enjoyable weekend, vintage girl!

[Rory Bremner]

Hey, we've got snow on the ranges here. Only 3 d f here this morning :(.

[vintage girl]

Oh my Rory, even though that is quite cold, we could use some of that our way. Half the country here is going through a horrendous heat wave. We are not so bad in Southern CA right now, but the humidity is a bit higher than normal:eek:

[RoseMary]

Beautiful mountains, Rory! I don't think I'm quite ready for snow, but I sure would love some cooler temperatures. We've been 100 or over everyday for almost a month. Some days the humidity really is horrendous. I'm so ready for fall.

[shabbychick]

Well, I've got rain. Again. I'd pay good money for a heat wave right now. I do love snow, but I'm kind of pining for some sustained sunshine. We had two nice days in a row over the weekend, and it was heaven while it lasted.

Your mountains are beautiful, Rory. But 3 degrees is way outside my comfort zone!!

[Rory Bremner]

Believe me Shabby, it's not my ideal either......Brrrrrr, it's freezing in the windy city!!! :p

[ChapterTwo]

I guess the bottom line is that any weather extreme is annoying, to say the least. If only we could have moderation! :)

I'd gladly give you some of our heat and humidity, Shabby (especially since you're willing to pay for it). HA!

[Rory Bremner]

Sign me up Doc :p

[Breezy]

Rory the pic is just lovely.
I'd trade ya some heat for some cold right now. We've been hot and next week will be even hotter with a few days hitting the 100 mark.
I see a lot of green (treetops?) in your pic - at least you have that. Here we lose all the green things except evergreen trees which get a little sad looking by the end of winter. Like RoseMary I'm sooo looking forward to autumn!

[ChapterTwo]

Sign me up Doc :p

Hmmmm, if I can only figure out how to bottle or box up the heat and humidity, I'll have a booming e-business! :D

[Rory Bremner]

Up until a few weeks ago, we were experiencing a fairly mild winter. We had a cold snap and it's been freezing since. Usually, I don't mind the winter months, but this year....no way. It's just so hard to get anything done, lack of day light, energy etc

[ChapterTwo]

What you're describing, Rory, is the way it's been in the Northeast U.S.A., where I am (as well as in other parts of our country) - the winters are brutally cold with lots of snow and ice, and the summers are humid and hot, hot, hot with little break. I've read that this is the way it will be from now on. :eek: I hope not! Also, I miss the normal spring and fall, which we never seem to have anymore.

[Rory Bremner]

Well, more or less, except, we only get snow in the high country areas and in the South Island, it's rare to get it on the ranges so close to the sea here in Wellington. During summer, highs here are in the late 20's. It's the wind here in Wellington that is brutal. It comes across the Cook Straight from the Southern Alps, cutting right through you. You have to always deduct 3 degrees from the forecast, allowing for wind chill factor

[ChapterTwo]

It's the wind here in Wellington that is brutal. It comes across the Cook Straight from the Southern Alps, cutting right through you. You have to always deduct 3 degrees from the forecast, allowing for wind chill factor

Not to be compared with the severely harsh winds you endure, my "new" old house is on a corner, and in winter it seems that the walls are made of cardboard. I'm guessing that good insulation was something that wasn't in the plan, and finances are such that the best I can do is invest in a bunch of sweaters. :o

Here's to some hot chocolate for you, Rory!

[Rory Bremner]

Delicious, thanks:p

[vintage girl]

Well the humidity hit us this past weekend. Sunday was like a sauna:eek: Hubs and I were installing a new ceiling fan in our bedroom. The morning started out fine, but by the time we were finished we both soaked. We did not think to put on the air:confused::rolleyes:

[ChapterTwo]

We did not think to put on the air:confused::rolleyes:

Don't feel bad - you were caught up in the moment of installing the ceiling fan! I hope it turned out well. I LOVE ceiling fans - they make so much sense (for few cents! ;))

[vintage girl]

The ceiling fan is gorgeous. Another great Lowes find. $200 fan for $40:D I have ceiling fans in all bedrooms and livingroom. Most of the time we only need to use them instead of the AC. But this one was very difficult to put up. We like to use decorative ceiling medallions and it was hard to make this fan fit with the one we had! But after 2 1/2 hours it was finally done:eek: The fan we had up there originally was also a sale find, but once we installed it, we were never really happy with it. Here is a pic of the new one. It goes so much nicer with the other lightining in our bedroom:) Hubs is going to put the old fan in the garage. He has a refrigerator, recliner, freezer, microwave, coffemaker and a tv out there. He might as well have a ceiling fan;)

[shabbychick]

That's a beautiful fan! I love the shape of the paddles. I'm going to have a fan installed over my stairs in place of the light fixture that is there now, but mine won't have any lights. It's too hard to change the bulbs, so I want something I don't have to mess with. I love ceiling medallions, too, and in my forever house, I'm going to have them.

[Rory Bremner]

We have snow in the middle of town, unheard of in my time in Wellington.

Check out this clip

http://nz.news.yahoo.com/a/-/world/10041305/nz-polar-blast-a-one-in-50-year-event/

[shabbychick]

I like snow as long as it's outside and I'm not. I bet the kids are having a blast, though. How much do you have at your house?

[Rory Bremner]

I've got about an inch on the ground at my house, which is heaps considering I'm 600m from the sea!!

[ChapterTwo]

Oh, gosh, Rory...I suppose it's another example of global climate change causing the weather to go awry! :eek:

[Rory Bremner]

More snow this evening!

[ChapterTwo]

Thanks for sharing the photos, Rory. It looks so odd to see snow along with all of the greenery! By the time we get snow here, all of our foliage is crispy and brown...:(
I hope your snow melts away quickly and doesn't cause problems.

Here in the Northeast U.S. we've been deluged with rain for the past few days. New York City (about 9 miles from here) broke the record on Sunday:
http://www.nydailynews.com/ny_local/2011/08/14/2011-08-14_rain_snarls_traffic_floods_subways_in_new_york_ city.html

I have no idea why the fella in the photo would have gone past the yellow warning tape, attempting to drive through what looks like a lake! :confused:

[Rory Bremner]

Wow, that is amazing! Thanks for sharing, interesting site too:)

[mac78]

""I have no idea why the fella in the photo would have gone past the yellow warning tape, attempting to drive through what looks like a lake! ""

Just had to say....he is a dumb ass. :D:eek:

[Rory Bremner]

Well, winter has officially left us for another year. Spring has sprung and so have my tulips.

[shabbychick]

Congratulations on getting through another winter! The tulip is beautiful. We are finally going to get a week or two of sustained sunlight and warmth (just in time for school to start again). Better late than never, I guess.

[Rory Bremner]

Thanks Shabby. It was an unusual winter this year, started quite mild and descended into a bitter cold snap for the record books. I planted these bulbs in late July, pretty pleased with their progress. Autumn for you guys huh?

[shabbychick]

Yes, autumn is rapidly approaching. We had a terrible spring this year, and summer was gloomy overall. This upcoming week of high temps and abundant sunshine will be a novelty for us this year. Too bad I'll be back at work. As soon as my sweet peas finish blooming, I need to pull up the chicken wire I have under them, dig out the old hyacinth bulbs, and plant some new tulips and daffodils for next spring. I'm just not that impressed with the hyacinth, so I'm switching to something else next year.

[mac78]

It went from 97 to 71 here in less than 48 hours.....Last night we had a hudge lightening show with bad storms. Spent today at the lake with a sweatshirt and tennis shoes on. Ugg, I can not believe summer has passed by so quickly.

[ChapterTwo]

I can not believe summer has passed by so quickly.


I'll second THAT emotion...:o:confused::(

[koolmimi]

Our summer has been absolutly awful. We have had 68 days of 100 to 110 and no rain to speak of. The wildfires are taking their toll. My son and daughter in law had to evacuate their property near Bastrop where they are building a new house. The fires are within 2 miles of their property. Louisiana is getting too much rain and we can't get any.

It got cooler today down to 88 and it feels wonderful.

Claudia

[ChapterTwo]

I never noticed you were in Texas, koolmimi...I've heard about the horrendous weather you've had this summer, and I'm so sorry! I am sure you're wishing some of that water that LA is getting would just move west a bit.

I hope and pray that the house your son and d-i-l are building will escape any harm at all...

Yes, after the severe temps you've been having, 88 must feel delightful! Enjoy...

[vintage girl]

We have had a very mild summer, which has been wonderful. We only started getting heat this past couple weeks. But we have rarely gone over 100. Autumn is my favorite time of year, so I am thrilled that summer is basically over. We are leaving for Utah on Thursday and I am looking forward to the cooler temps and fall colors. We go up to about 11,000 feet, so the days are refreshing and the nights are very cool, but not cold. Perfect weather for hiking, fishing and just hanging out.

Claudia,

I cannot believe the weather Texas has been having this summer. I hope your son and dil's house is safe from the fires. Was watching them on the news this am.You guys have really been hit hard this year. Take care, try to stay cool and by all means, be safe.

[Rory Bremner]

Spring has sprung here, it's amazing how everything comes alive with a little sunshine.

[ChapterTwo]

Here in the U.S., where most flowers have wound down, it was wonderful to see your pot of marigolds, Rory. It's nice to know that spring is "somewhere"! ;)

If I were wealthy, I think I'd follow spring and summer around the globe...
(Well, I bought a lottery ticket last night...lol)

[Breezy]

Beautiful flowers Rory - so cheery looking. Isn't spring wonderful - it's always worth the wait! :)