Seeds, Bulbs and Other Cheap Thrills

A good month behind kinder climates, Daffodils are threatening great things.

Half my yard is celebrating springtime, and therefore so am I. In spite of chill winds, freezing rains and unwelcome snow... heirloom bulbs in the sunniest spots are determined to put on a pretty show.
I dig through the filthy remnants of winter, exposing green shoots, in search of the first perky primrose and tiny grape hyacinth. So sweet to be playing in the mud again.

All the trappings of a farm girl summer are getting a jumpstart in my sunny window. Planting from seed saves me a bundle plus it adds 30 days to my too-short growing season. Look closely at those green leaves. Can you tell what's sprouting here? Hint: It's a super popular perennial.

When I wake to those late season snows, I can't help but dream of Hawaii, my most favorite place on the planet. The closest I'll get is this pretty Plumeria ~ a refugee of my last visit there. (Plumeria is surprisingly easy to grow indoors. Phosphate encourages plentiful blooms.)
The fact that she's blooming is one undeniable sign of spring. And, here's another...
"Honk, honk, honk," cry the Canadian Geese.
"Not again!" grouse those cranky Sand Hill Cranes.
"Harumph!" grumbles a Bull Elk as he rises to his feet and saunters away from the trespassers...
Early this morning, I opened the blinds to discover a hot air balloon, blown off course, bouncing across the Swaner Nature Preserve. (Across the road from my house.) What does this mean? Why, the tourists have returned, that's what!
I live in the strangest place. But, somehow it seems to suit me.
Quick Growing Veggies I'm starting for my Mountain Gardens

• Cocozelle Bush Zucchini: matures in 50 days.
• Thessaloniki Tomato: matures in 60 days.
• Oxheart Carrot: matures in 65 days.
• Lemon Cucumber: matures in 70 days.