This is a familiar sight - the clock is ticking! Diane said she will get the thermometer up soon. Nothing melted much today, in spite of the sunshine. The temperature remained in the low 40s and there was a cold wind this morning, and then in the afternoon we lost the sunshine. Tomorrow a little rain is in the forecast and Thursday in the 50s. I'll believe it when I feel it.
    We are saddened to learn of the death of Ronney Lyster, co-owner with of Abel Toll of Littleton Chevrolet and the Auto Savers Group. We didn't know Ronney well, but ran into him a few times when we were at the dealership in Littleton. Lots of people have enjoyed the television ads he and Abel have done in the past - Ronney was as jovial in person as he seemed in those ads. He was well respected in the auto business, according to Ernie Thurston and Bill Dimick. I'm sure his family and business associates are reeling from his sudden departure. He will be missed.
     I'm thinking "spring" today. I've had winter picture on my computer screen - wallpaper, I think it's called - but today I searched through some old photos and found one of our apple trees in full bloom, taken in about May of 2010, I think. It's a nice change and a very pleasant reminder of what's ahead - soon, I hope.
     Don't forget to get your Ice-Out tickets in the mail by Saturday night, otherwise they cannot be included in the contest. You still have Sunday to purchase them on line, but if you are mailing them, they will need to be postmarked Saturday, since April 1st comes on Sunday. Businesses can sell them until close of business Sunday - and they will be available on line until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, April 1.
We wish everyone luck - this year's contest is going to be as unpredictable as ever, but at least we aren't worried that the block will sink and disconnect the clock before the official end of the contest, like some years in the past. That's always a nail biter. This year should be pretty "normal," but you never know - there could be a surprise. We'll keep everyone posted on what's happening.