April 22, two days late, 2020

A bit late, but still here.  Sorry if you were looking for it yesterday, I was a bit swamped. For some reason the newspaper only printed half of what I had submitted for the usual weekly news.  And so you may get a double dose of the same news, either this week or next, depending on how it plays out. Confusing? yes, for me too.  But, at least is isn't an update on the COVID-19, one more timie.

        The cliff-side spillway of the Twin Lakes Canal that originates in Mink Creek has a healthy trickle descending down to the Bear River below. It looks like nature has taken a white chalk and drawn a ragged zigzag vertical stroke against the rocky red background.

         Armando Crosland had come here some time ago for a visit with his family. His employment is based in Washington, DC. His visit to Idaho was lengthened out when the rules for the virus went into effect. There is always a project going at his parents' home on so his time has not been squandered, but it is a relief to get things straightened out for him. His job often takes him abroad but we are uncertain of how the COVID 19 restrictions might change that.

          Some of us celebrated Passover as well as Easter. With limited shopping and safe distancing it is amazing how creative people can be to still meet their goals and fulfill their wishes. Once a person has taken a trip to the Holy Land at this time of year the meaning of the Feast of the Passover is no longer just a time of celebration that we read about in the Bible.

            It is interesting to notice that with home schooling taking place in our families that during the week before Easter some of the topics being studied were about different aspects of the holiday. Some learning of different Easter customs around the world, others of the history of Easter, some religious related. Such a variety that, chances are, except for our current situation, these things would never have come so strongly to the children's attention. Much of that week would have been chocolate rabbits and eggs, both sweet and natural.

          That snow that keeps returning, along with the north wind that brings biting cold even when the sun is shining, just cannot quench people's desire and anticipation for the season of renewal. No matter the weather residents of this community are thinking of, and doing, tasks that spell S-p-r-i-n-g. Noted are garages being cleaned out, household repairs underway, seedlings planted indoors and coddled in spots of warmth and light to get a head start. Readiness for when the weather decides to settle down. One gardener has already got tomatoes planted and wrapped up in their cages, top to bottom, to give them encouragement, while offering protection.

            

         The spring wildflowers are making themselves known, in spite of the frequent snows that have fallen upon them. Curly flowers pepper the slopes and yellow bells, some call these buttercups and if the bloom were turned upside down in would be a lovely little cup. Nodding short stemmed bluebells. A neighbor brought us a bunch so that we could enjoy them without climbing the slopes.

We haven't yet gotten any water cress but I am hearing rumors that it is available now. Mink Creek spring is thriving.