The New Year has brought little snow our way, but the crisp cold air and dazzling sunshine have been absorbed by us all. I have even gotten into "sunglasses" because of the brightness and they are something I usually don't wear often, only because I never know where to put them down...

I got the yellow chairs put away yesterday, since there are predictions of snow coming. We had enjoyed sitting on them up to the last minute in the Goddess Garden. And the squirrels were very busy yesterday too! They finished off the sunflower seeds in a snap. The small bird activity has increased on the Garden Tree. We put our Christmas Tree on the round top garden table, surrounded it with snow, the newest birdhouse, and then decorated it with ornaments. Su.Sane made suet balls and Suzanne had made some ornaments of peanut butter, seeds and raisins. It looked wonderful and is now being used extensively by the smaller birds. Of course all sizes of our feathered friends come daily to feast on the popcorn and bread pieces. I think they know they can count on us for the whole winter season!!

The sunshine has helped keep the rosemarys and lemongrass and verbenas healthy and strong. The mints are struggling because they were too root bound. I am going to repot them this weekend and see if that will help them. Tomorrow they will all get their buttermilk baths, along with thorough waterings. Of course the fragrance they create while being played with is worthy payment of any effort!

I think I'll go get the potting soil, while its on my mind. Will return later!