We're settling back into a more reasonable existence this week, although it's still been pretty hectic around here. There are always loose ends that need attention after the clock stops, and we're getting all of that taken care of - plus the newsletter for the Joe's Pond Association has to go out, and of course it never fails that it's all ready to go and then something has to be added or removed at the last minute and the juggling starts.

Sadly, one of the unexpected last-minute additions this time was announcing the death of Gail Dolan on April 6. Condolences may be sent to her husband, Frank Dolan, at 98 McKenna Rd., Norwich VT 05055. Our sincere sympathy to Frank and their family.

The newsletter has finally gone to the printer, and should be in the mail to all our Joe's Pond Association members sometime next week. You will be able to access it on line in a few days, as well. There's a benefit to reading it on line - it's in color. The printed version is black and white. Remember too that your membership remittance envelope will be tucked inside your newsletter. Please look for it and use it to send your dues payment.

Fred was out this morning taking pictures. He said it felt more like spring today and he was hoping to find some signs of it. He brought back this picture, which looks more like late fall than spring, but I like it just the same.

When we got up this morning there was snow on the ground, but it melted quickly and the only sign of spring I can see is the pussy willow tree on our back lawn that is way past pussy willow stage into "catkin" stage. It fairly glows yellow, and I expect there will be clouds of pollen when the wind picks up again. It was pretty mild today, though, and we had a little rain and a few snowflakes, but not like yesterday. In spite of the precipitation, everything is very dry and the forest fire danger is high.

Cabot has been hauling material to repair the road somewhere beyond us. Trucks were going by regularly all day. At least our road going in either direction is very good again, and we haven't seen much change in the past few days, so perhaps we're through mud season. Now to get some warm weather and a nice gentle rain to warm things up and get the grass and flowers started.