For those of us with bountiful winter snowfalls, many of us have unique task of fixing or replacing our mailboxes for hopefully last time, or at least for next 12 months. This is particularly an aggravating task as we spend much of time doing it, cussing under our breath snow plow operator that we know had pleasure wiping out our mailbox.

Then there is garden. I am not sure why I still bother. Maybe it is due to a memory of my youth, when I spent two summers working on a farm. It may also be some innate desire to see something grow from nothing, that I had a part in. I think it is latter, but regardless, every April I go out and till, fertilizer and lime soil, while I sacrifice my body to Black flies. By May I begin to plant Peas, Carrots and Onions. By June I plant Tomatoes, Peppers and Squash. And by July, I am at war with local Wood Chuck.

Finally, there is changing of machine guards; storing snow blower away and preparing lawn mower, or in my case lawn mowers. I have sit-down one for main course, and a push one for dessert. As my father-in-law always insists, sharpen blades before start of cutting season and then a couple of more times throughout summer. Well, being non-retired, I am satisfied sharpening them once before cutting season begins and I have yet to see any ill side effects.

I see lights of Boston approaching in distance. My flight is almost over; however my spring list is nearly complete. I am sure I have missed a few items, but my wife will surely remind me. I look forward to warmth of spring, but as I look down at my list, I think, I’ll just sit back and savor final weeks of winter.

Me_Donovan@comcast.net www.homeadditionplus.com

Over the past 20+ years Mr. Donovan has been involved with building homes and home additions. Mr. Donovan's formal education & profession have been as an Electrical Engineer & Marketing Manager.