Spring has arrived...I think

Michael mowed part of the yard today...I think that's a fair indication spring has arrived. I planted some Calla bulbs in pots a few weeks ago with the plan of transplanting next year. Per the box, they can't be planted outside until it stays above 51 degrees. Our weather's rather fickle so I'm being cautious.

Jean, Chris and I were in the car, on our way to Great Falls and Chris made the comment, "That's one thing about Montana, if you don't like the weather, wait 5 minutes." I realized that I've heard that statement in just about every place I've lived. I'm not sure if it's El Nino, La Nina or just a very common saying. It falls in the same category with "The mosquito is our state bird", I guess.

I have visions of glorious gardens dancing in my head. I received a Breck's catalogue with a free coupon for $25 worth of bulbs and stunning photos. We picked up the mail on our way to the grocery and I paged through it the entire way there and back. Michael informed me that he liked all of them...repeatedly :) When we got back to the house I sat down on the living room floor with my scissors and cut out pictures. Crocus for early spring, Tulips & Daffodils for mid spring, Mountain Bells for early summer and Lilies for summer.

I selected my colors and laid them out in order of bloom and asked Mike what he thought. With a sideways glance he replied, "Looks good". I then added up my total and realized that short of a second mortgage I would have to do some trimming. I finally settled on a few Crocus, Daffodils and Tulips.

I'm learning to be patient. I have 5 acres to play with. A little each summer will go a long way. I will not have Aunt Lottie's beds overnight. This fall I'll plant my first bed. Next summer maybe Carpet Lilies along the fence and Hostas in front of the deck. Bernice also mentioned that Hollyhocks do well in this area.

For now my Calla lilies are sprouting and we've adopted an Aloe Vera Plant, a Philodendron and a Dieffenbachia.