Month: March 2012

Abnormal weather yet again

So far today we have tied the record for the warmest March 8.  I am wearing shorts today.  In some ways I don’t mind, after all it’s a nice day outside.  But I am concerned about the general weather trends, and the predictions that spring this year is going to be warmer than normal for us.  In light of the fact that we had so little snow this year, and thus there is not much snowpack to melt this spring, a warmer spring could spell trouble for gardeners and farmers.  We could have droughts to worry about.  And it could mean increased risk of fires.

ETA: We broke the record after all.   The old record for March 8th was 67 and it reached 68 degrees.  Records have been kept since 1872.  Right now here in Cambridge it is 66 degrees, with the wind clocking in at 20 mph from the south south-east.

I was hoping to plant some herbs this spring, if I can manage it.  I do have a love for things that grow.  Just like hobbits.  Fresh herbs are so nice for cooking.  Maybe I will try making some flavored vinegars or olive oils.

-Geoff

Finally, some work for me

As of today I got a part-time job as a docent at a historic site here in Boston.   I go in for training the weekend after next.  Thank God for small blessings.  Between that and some of the freelance IT stuff I am getting at least I am making a little money.  Not much, but some.

-Geoff

Of butterflies, and one special chrysalis

As Geoff mentioned, on Saturday we took his sister, Liz, and her 3 kids to the Museum of Science, among other places, for their day visit to Boston.  After our lunch time visit to Harvard Sq. for some excellent burgers, we stopped back off at home before heading to the museum.  Whenever we enter the house, especially with guests, we’re always greeted at the door by our enthusiastic dachshunds and usually at least one cat.

On Saturday we were greeted by a bouncy little Thumbelina, Scratch, and no Rerun.  There was a distinct whining coming from the living room, but as everyone filed in and wandered into the kitchen, I was apparently the only one who 1) noticed his absence and 2) heard the pathetic whimpers coming from the living room.  (Rerun is an expert at The Pathetic Dog Whimper.)

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Family visit

Yesterday we had the pleasure of a visit from my sister Liz and her kids, my nephews Will and Ben and niece Kate.  We took them on a quick tour of Casa Dachshund.  For the first time they had the chance to meet our cats, and it was interesting to see how everyone reacted.   Scratch was his usual self, very friendly and outgoing, and so he greeted everyone.  Bucky was in his favorite spot, in my old office chair near the front bay window.  He did not even get up as far as I know.  But surprisingly Smoky actually came out to greet everyone too.

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