Recent storms and blizzards have set snow records according to the Blue Hill Observatory. “The 27.1 inches of snowfall measured on [Saturday] Jan. 29 also broke the record for the highest calendar day snowfall ever measured in January at the observatory.”

Power outages, car accidents and damages to trees were common. But at least we didn’t experience any underwater volcanic eruptions with resulting tsunamis as so many thousands did around the Pacific Ocean.

We were surprised to read a report from the Old Farmer’s Almanac that snow is more likely to fall on Valentine’s Day than on Christmas!

Speaking of the Almanac, one of their contributors recently noted that “the garden season really begins now with the arrival of the countless seed catalogs! Our favorite tradition is to browse by the fire-and dream.” We agree that the colorful catalogs feature not only seeds but also bulbs, houseplants, perennials, trees, shrubs, vines and even cut flowers, to name a few of their offerings.

We recently received a press release from Randy Schultz, Editor of www.HomeGardenandHomestead.com, a popular website for gardeners and homeowners. “It’s too early to plant a garden in most places in the U.S. and Canada, but it’s not too early to start planning for your best garden ever,” noted Schultz. “The catalogs and websites we chose for our Best 2022 Garden Catalogs list offer a tremendous assortment of new varieties and garden-tested heirlooms. There is literally something to delight every gardener….”

One of my favorite garden writers, Thomas Mickey, recently posted on his “American Gardening” blog that: “Garden Catalogs Brighten Up the Winter.” http://americangardening.net/garden-catalogs-brighten-up-the-winter

He notes: “In spite of all our investment of time and energy into social media, it’s still fun to receive a garden catalog in the mail. So many garden writers over the years mention the winter ritual of finding such a catalog, arriving just on time.

“As the cold weather continues and just having experienced a massive snow storm here in New England…, we need relief. I am so happy I have a few garden catalogs to keep me occupied over the next few days. White Flower Farm has a beautiful catalog featuring its flowers, containers and oh so many plants plus surprises as well.”

Me too, Thomas Mickey! I’m so ready for Spring!