March Mountain Madness



Bluebird day in March



     In the mountains we expect March to come in like a lion.  And, the lion will come and go the whole month!  Wednesday was a spectacular day--sunny 70's light breeze.  Great for anything outdoors--gardening (a little early for bedding plants), hiking (perfect!), or shopping at Branson Landing (you guessed it, that's what I did!)  Two days later, the lion is back bringing near freezing temps.  That's okay, it's March Madness mountain style.  Last year, we had a 12 inch snow the first day of Spring.  Beautiful!  And, then it melted a few days later.  Perfect!

Canoe dog on the Buffalo River

     Our cabin "spring breakers" (guests) accept the fickleness of the weather.  Never knowing what they will get when they reserve, but wanting to make the most of days off, they are blessed with a little of both-- the bluebird days and the roaring lion days.  Hiking is on every ones list, and this year many bravely made the Hemmed-In-Hollow hike which is always a challenge.  But, they all say it's worth it.  Canoeing the cold waters of the Buffalo River in March takes more than bravery.  One must understand the "ups and downs" (pun intended) of canoeing a fast flowing stream.  Hypothermia can set in fast if not prepared for the unexpected.  We usually wait until late spring or early summer for our float.





April tulips at Mountain Springs



     Then comes April!  Beautiful! Showery, flowery, bowery!  Every year, the garden centers tempt me!  But, I have learned--tiny little greenhouse plants cannot take the shock of cool winds on the mountains.  I'll stay with the tulips and daffodils that are already blooming in my yard, and plan my garden center trips for mid-May.  Then I get in a planting frenzy, as does my neighbor, the Master Gardener!  I can never keep up with her (nor do I want to!)



Lilac explosion!



     Every yard should have a lilac bush--I have five!  A few in a vase (or use a jar) in the house brings heaven a little closer.  



Shooting stars near Wildflower Falls



     The woods in April always are the greenest with tiny wildflowers peeking out among the brilliant green leaves.  Dutchman's breeches, bloodroot, wake robin, I even spy a Jack-in-the-Pulpit along the trail now and then.  Has anyone seen the illusive Morel mushrooms yet?  We never have much luck finding them :-(  No matter, it gives us one more reason to get out in the woods!

Little Johnny-jump-up said,

"It must be spring,

I just saw a lady-bug

And heard a robin sing."

      Edwina Fallis