Kind friend Dale Lincoln returns to the Skillin's Garden Log with a true and memorable tale:
A young man was at my church waiting for Sunday School to begin. He was filled with an extra supply of energy. I was the Church van driver. A few minutes earlier, in the van, I had notice that “the kid” had “zip” while giving him a ride from his home to the church. Many adults in the church were observing his actions and could have said to him:”Go Get Lost.!” But I would never say those words to him even though I was not overjoyed with his actions that morning. It was easy for me to thank the Lord that he was healthy and in the church. I recognized “the kid” by name. On a very dark night about eight years earlier I had been beside “the kid” and his Dad in the wilds of Maine---an unforgettable experience..
During October, darkness arrives very soon after sunset along the coast of Maine. One autumn evening, in the twilight, I drove from Eastport to my home in Perry. A half hour later I was on an errand, driving over the same section of U. S. Highway #1. A half mile from my home automobiles were lined up for a half mile. There were few parking spots!
I stopped and asked a person near the highway why all of the cars were stopped. Upon hearing the words: “Kid Lost” I quickly returned home for boots, coat, gloves, and a flashlight. Soon I was at the central area for the search parties. I found out the location where “the kid” was last seen and headed for that area. For thirty years, while hunting and fishing, I had walked through those same woods in the daylight. Darkness brings along more difficulties while tramping through a forest. My heart was heavy. I learned that “the kid” was about three years old! The temperature was in the low thirties. A cold night was happening.
“The Kid” had accompanied his Dad and a little hound dog on a rabbit hunting expedition not far from the highway. They had been walking along an old logging road. The dog started chasing a rabbit, His Dad took his eye off his Son for a very short period of time. Soon he realized his Son was missing and was sure he needed help. In a panic he ran to the nearest home, spread the alarm, and hurried back to continue searching.
I was praying that “the kid” would quickly be found. My flashlight started dimming and I knew that very soon I would have to return to the central area for batteries.
Suddenly three very loud shotgun blasts echoed through the cool night air! I had heard the signal that “the lost was found.” I thanked the Lord, hurried back to the central area, and was resting in the darkness—not noticing or recognizing the people around me.
Within a couple of minutes my night vision allowed me to recognize a small group of people walking in my direction. About ten feet from me they stopped, bent over, and reunited “the kid” with his Dad who was sitting on the ground. .
The sounds of a man crying with joy that I witnessed in those moments while standing in the darkness are not in my ability to describe. I was crying with joy as I headed toward my car and home.
The next day I talked with the man that found “the kid.” His group had continued on the logging road.
A few hundred yards from where “the kid” was last seen, he heard a whimpering sound. “The kid” was lying face down and crying only a few yards from the logging road.
To this day, I'm still amazed at how quickly a very small town had about one hundred people joining in those search parties.
Meanwhile back at the church, Sunday School classes ended. I returned to the Church Van. “The Kid” was still smiling but remained sitting in his seat as I returned him to his home. During the next two or three years I gave “the kid” several round trips from his home to Sunday School in the church van and with my family in our auto. We became friends.
For many years I haven't always been happy with kid's behavior but I don't think I ever told any of them to “Go get lost!”
Dale Lincoln of
Perry, Maine
for Skillin's Greenhouses
in Zephyrhills FL
March 7, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Roses by Sheliah!
Sheliah checks in from high atop the mountains of Raymond Maine. Folks, if you can garden there, you can garden anywhere!
"I can't believe that in about a month I will be out examining my roses to see how they did over the winter. We have had lots of snow and the roses should be in pretty good shape. I like to uncover the mound of frozen dirt or compost that I mounded them with late last fall gradually. I never start cutting back dead canes at his time, though I know that some growers recommend this. I have found that waiting until I see leaves starting to push out in May is a better time to give those roses a good cut back. I have found over my many years of growing roses, that when you cut roses back too early in April there is a chance that a cold spell can kill them after they made it through a long winter. Once you see the leaves begin to grow it is time to use a fertilizer.
I rarely use chemicals in my garden but I have been known to use them on my roses. It's all out war when it comes to my roses! Rosetone is a great food for those of you who prefer not to use a chemical fertilizer. There are organic fungal sprays that should be used at this time. If you had black spot and other fungal problems last year you need to start early with a fungicide. I like the 3 in 1 products that are watered in and take care of bugs, fungal problems and feeding in one shot. There are also 3 in 1 sprays that work very well. I am excited to see what new products Skillin's will have to offer this year. If you lost a rosebush or two don't be disheartened, it happens. In the nursery this year we will be offering some beautiful shrub roses that need little or no care and bloom most of the summer. If you have never had good luck growing roses come by the nursery and we will recommend the perfect one for you! "
From Mike S.: Sheliah I had tremendous luck last year with my roses in battling leaf spot and fungus by using Messenger. Messenger is an all natural product that contains harpin proteins. Harpin proteins are used by plants to fortify their cells and thus to naturally fight diseases. Messenger "tricks" the plant into thinking that there must be a disease on the plant because of the presence of the harpin proteins supplied by Messenger. The plant then thinks it has a fight on its hands and starts to produce harpin proteins in overdrive. Thus the plant is very well protected from leaf spot, mildews, etc. This makes Messenger an awesome product for roses; spray Messenger monthly throughout the growing season.
Sheliah for Skillin's
Raymond ME
March 4, 2009
"I can't believe that in about a month I will be out examining my roses to see how they did over the winter. We have had lots of snow and the roses should be in pretty good shape. I like to uncover the mound of frozen dirt or compost that I mounded them with late last fall gradually. I never start cutting back dead canes at his time, though I know that some growers recommend this. I have found that waiting until I see leaves starting to push out in May is a better time to give those roses a good cut back. I have found over my many years of growing roses, that when you cut roses back too early in April there is a chance that a cold spell can kill them after they made it through a long winter. Once you see the leaves begin to grow it is time to use a fertilizer.
I rarely use chemicals in my garden but I have been known to use them on my roses. It's all out war when it comes to my roses! Rosetone is a great food for those of you who prefer not to use a chemical fertilizer. There are organic fungal sprays that should be used at this time. If you had black spot and other fungal problems last year you need to start early with a fungicide. I like the 3 in 1 products that are watered in and take care of bugs, fungal problems and feeding in one shot. There are also 3 in 1 sprays that work very well. I am excited to see what new products Skillin's will have to offer this year. If you lost a rosebush or two don't be disheartened, it happens. In the nursery this year we will be offering some beautiful shrub roses that need little or no care and bloom most of the summer. If you have never had good luck growing roses come by the nursery and we will recommend the perfect one for you! "
From Mike S.: Sheliah I had tremendous luck last year with my roses in battling leaf spot and fungus by using Messenger. Messenger is an all natural product that contains harpin proteins. Harpin proteins are used by plants to fortify their cells and thus to naturally fight diseases. Messenger "tricks" the plant into thinking that there must be a disease on the plant because of the presence of the harpin proteins supplied by Messenger. The plant then thinks it has a fight on its hands and starts to produce harpin proteins in overdrive. Thus the plant is very well protected from leaf spot, mildews, etc. This makes Messenger an awesome product for roses; spray Messenger monthly throughout the growing season.
Sheliah for Skillin's
Raymond ME
March 4, 2009
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Garden Talks Week of March 2, 2009
Good friend Hammon Buck of Plants Unlimited in Rockport ME sent out some very timely gardening tips recently and I am going to shamelessly share them with you. Plants Unlimited is a great operation and can be found on Route 1 in Rockport as well as at http://www.plants-unlimited.com/.
*Ornamental Grasses Gone Ugly?
"If you left your ornamental grasses standing last fall to create winter interest, the beauty is probably gone now! The repeated snow and ice storms have probably flattened them and made them quite unsightly. When you can finally get to these grasses, cut them down to within an inch or two of the soil line. This will help make way for new growth in the spring!"
I have not grown any ornamental grasses in my yard. Last fall we cut down or cut away a lot of shade trees that had grown up around my once sunny back yard. One goal of mine was to create a better landscaping situation where I can grow more "edible" plants such as more blueberries, raspberries, etc. BUT also I would like to try some ornamental grasses to highlight certain areas. Let me know at info@skillins.com or comment below as to some neat ornamental grasses you have tried and like in your landscape!
*Great Fruit Production Starts in March!
"March is the ideal time to prune your fruit trees while they are still dormant ( before the buds show any green). Take out any dead and winter-damaged wood, suckers at the base and branches that rub against one another. Then, thin out the interior so it's not crowded or twiggy. Finally, shape the tree overall to maintain a healthy, pleasant stature."
Awesome advice. Terry Skillin also wants to remind you that the end of March or beginning of April is a good time to start your dormant oil program. We sell some very safe sprays for your fruit trees that will help combat insect and disease and combined with good pruning as discussed above will mean a great yield of fruit.
*Where Did I Put the Crocus?
"Watch for crocus and snowdrops in protected and warmer areas of your garden. If mulch or lingering snow is hiding them or smothering them, gently push some of this away. They might need help with late snowstorms too but once they push their heads up, they will brighten up your yard! These early bloomers are amazingly resilient!"
Not bad advice. For the most part I don't worry about snow holding back my little bloomers. The timing usually works out fine--especially once that early Spring sun gets to work melting that snow!
*Cold Frames Really Extend the Season!
If you have a cold frame or are thinking of making one, early spring is the time to think about getting it started! Little seedlings can be raised and acclimated in its shelter allowing you to soon move some of your seedlings from your house to the cold frame. Early cold crops like lettuce, broccoli and others will withstand some cooler temperatures.
*Summer Flowering Bulbs
"If you stored tender bulbs such as glads, dahlias and begonias, check on them now. Get rid of any that show signs of mold or rot, as well as any that are shriveled. Brush off any loose dirt and return them to storage bags or sacks. Sprinkle a little bit of fungicide powder in the bag if rot has been a problem."
It may be early for the glads and dahlias but I would get the begonias started. We sell biodegradable pots that you can plant them into for easy transplant later. Also I heartily recommend all natural Bar Harbor Blend potting soil by Coast of Maine Organics as the soil to use. Get those begonias going NOW for all season beautiful color!
*Ornamental Grasses Gone Ugly?
"If you left your ornamental grasses standing last fall to create winter interest, the beauty is probably gone now! The repeated snow and ice storms have probably flattened them and made them quite unsightly. When you can finally get to these grasses, cut them down to within an inch or two of the soil line. This will help make way for new growth in the spring!"
I have not grown any ornamental grasses in my yard. Last fall we cut down or cut away a lot of shade trees that had grown up around my once sunny back yard. One goal of mine was to create a better landscaping situation where I can grow more "edible" plants such as more blueberries, raspberries, etc. BUT also I would like to try some ornamental grasses to highlight certain areas. Let me know at info@skillins.com or comment below as to some neat ornamental grasses you have tried and like in your landscape!
*Great Fruit Production Starts in March!
"March is the ideal time to prune your fruit trees while they are still dormant ( before the buds show any green). Take out any dead and winter-damaged wood, suckers at the base and branches that rub against one another. Then, thin out the interior so it's not crowded or twiggy. Finally, shape the tree overall to maintain a healthy, pleasant stature."
Awesome advice. Terry Skillin also wants to remind you that the end of March or beginning of April is a good time to start your dormant oil program. We sell some very safe sprays for your fruit trees that will help combat insect and disease and combined with good pruning as discussed above will mean a great yield of fruit.
*Where Did I Put the Crocus?
"Watch for crocus and snowdrops in protected and warmer areas of your garden. If mulch or lingering snow is hiding them or smothering them, gently push some of this away. They might need help with late snowstorms too but once they push their heads up, they will brighten up your yard! These early bloomers are amazingly resilient!"
Not bad advice. For the most part I don't worry about snow holding back my little bloomers. The timing usually works out fine--especially once that early Spring sun gets to work melting that snow!
*Cold Frames Really Extend the Season!
If you have a cold frame or are thinking of making one, early spring is the time to think about getting it started! Little seedlings can be raised and acclimated in its shelter allowing you to soon move some of your seedlings from your house to the cold frame. Early cold crops like lettuce, broccoli and others will withstand some cooler temperatures.
*Summer Flowering Bulbs
"If you stored tender bulbs such as glads, dahlias and begonias, check on them now. Get rid of any that show signs of mold or rot, as well as any that are shriveled. Brush off any loose dirt and return them to storage bags or sacks. Sprinkle a little bit of fungicide powder in the bag if rot has been a problem."
It may be early for the glads and dahlias but I would get the begonias started. We sell biodegradable pots that you can plant them into for easy transplant later. Also I heartily recommend all natural Bar Harbor Blend potting soil by Coast of Maine Organics as the soil to use. Get those begonias going NOW for all season beautiful color!
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Cycles of Life at the Smelt Brook by Dale Lincoln
Kind friend Dale Lincoln steps in with another great story of his life that we can relate to and hope for our lives:
Spring will be arriving soon. In hundreds of places along the coast of Maine smelts will make their annual run from the ocean to the rivers and brooks. Many fortunate people will be enjoying fresh smelts, fried in butter, right out of the skillet for supper. (Cook at least a dozen for me!) Several people in Maine have their favorite spots and know the time and place to catch smelts. For more than 65 years I have witnessed the smelt cycle plus several other cycles that happen very near my home at Perry, Maine.
The frogs were singing “knee deep” in the swamp. The air was filled with the aroma of apple blossoms. Less than a hundred feet from the swamp, a stream ran toward the ocean. My Dad was beside me in the darkness while we listened to the fish splashing as they laid their eggs. The brook was filled with smelts and we caught them with our hands.. Before going home, Dad had several smelts in his bucket. There were only three smelts in mine, but I was happy. The next morning, stories of my great fishing adventure went to school with me. After school Mom served fried smelts for supper. A love affair with the Smelt Brook was beginning, but smelt fishing for the year and Grade 3 quickly ended.
A few days later, as Allied Troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, I fought my battle with Measles. While those events were happening, fertilized eggs on the rocks at the Smelt Brook became little smelts. In the ocean they grew, became adult smelts, and in their spawning season returned to their “home” brook. Continuing cycles of life allowed my son Dale to be with me thirty years later and catch his first smelt.
Each year, trout from the ocean swim upstream and make their home in a shady fresh water pool. Before the summer of 1944 ended, Dad took me trout fishing. Two years later, while deer hunting, we hiked around the headwaters of the Smelt Brook: A large swamp at the base of Porcupine Mountain.
At high tide, the ocean is near the highway bridge at the Smelt Brook. Six hours later it is a mile from the bridge. I often dug clams in East Bay and washed them in the Smelt Brook stream in the middle of the clam flats. At high tide, the fresh water from the Smelt Brook remains on top of the heavier salt water. During very cold weather the fresh water freezes. The outgoing tide leaves a canopy of ice that protects the clams from the harsh elements.
Another wonderful thing happens when East Bay and the Smelt Brook is covered with heavy ice. Frost Fish, (a specie of Cod,) arrive, lay their eggs, then return to the ocean. In a few days little Frost Fish find their way to the ocean. They mature and in their season, return to spawn under the ice.
Water vapor is always rising from the oceans. When the water temperature is thirty degrees higher than the air temperature, “Sea Smoke” can be seen rising higher than the hilltops. Warm clouds form. Cold air meets the clouds above Porcupine Mountain. Precipitation falls to earth, trickles down the hills, and keeps water running in the Smelt Brook.
Another spring arrives. Apple blossoms send their fragrance. Frogs sing “knee deep,” and smelts return. In the darkness a young person catches his first fish and falls in love with the Smelt Brook, Several years later he takes his son to the Smelt Brook. The next evening he eats a dozen smelts for supper! May those cycles continue forever.
Dale Lincoln of
Perry, Maine
for Skillin's Greenhouses
in Zephyrhills FL
March 1, 2009
Spring will be arriving soon. In hundreds of places along the coast of Maine smelts will make their annual run from the ocean to the rivers and brooks. Many fortunate people will be enjoying fresh smelts, fried in butter, right out of the skillet for supper. (Cook at least a dozen for me!) Several people in Maine have their favorite spots and know the time and place to catch smelts. For more than 65 years I have witnessed the smelt cycle plus several other cycles that happen very near my home at Perry, Maine.
The frogs were singing “knee deep” in the swamp. The air was filled with the aroma of apple blossoms. Less than a hundred feet from the swamp, a stream ran toward the ocean. My Dad was beside me in the darkness while we listened to the fish splashing as they laid their eggs. The brook was filled with smelts and we caught them with our hands.. Before going home, Dad had several smelts in his bucket. There were only three smelts in mine, but I was happy. The next morning, stories of my great fishing adventure went to school with me. After school Mom served fried smelts for supper. A love affair with the Smelt Brook was beginning, but smelt fishing for the year and Grade 3 quickly ended.
A few days later, as Allied Troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, I fought my battle with Measles. While those events were happening, fertilized eggs on the rocks at the Smelt Brook became little smelts. In the ocean they grew, became adult smelts, and in their spawning season returned to their “home” brook. Continuing cycles of life allowed my son Dale to be with me thirty years later and catch his first smelt.
Each year, trout from the ocean swim upstream and make their home in a shady fresh water pool. Before the summer of 1944 ended, Dad took me trout fishing. Two years later, while deer hunting, we hiked around the headwaters of the Smelt Brook: A large swamp at the base of Porcupine Mountain.
At high tide, the ocean is near the highway bridge at the Smelt Brook. Six hours later it is a mile from the bridge. I often dug clams in East Bay and washed them in the Smelt Brook stream in the middle of the clam flats. At high tide, the fresh water from the Smelt Brook remains on top of the heavier salt water. During very cold weather the fresh water freezes. The outgoing tide leaves a canopy of ice that protects the clams from the harsh elements.
Another wonderful thing happens when East Bay and the Smelt Brook is covered with heavy ice. Frost Fish, (a specie of Cod,) arrive, lay their eggs, then return to the ocean. In a few days little Frost Fish find their way to the ocean. They mature and in their season, return to spawn under the ice.
Water vapor is always rising from the oceans. When the water temperature is thirty degrees higher than the air temperature, “Sea Smoke” can be seen rising higher than the hilltops. Warm clouds form. Cold air meets the clouds above Porcupine Mountain. Precipitation falls to earth, trickles down the hills, and keeps water running in the Smelt Brook.
Another spring arrives. Apple blossoms send their fragrance. Frogs sing “knee deep,” and smelts return. In the darkness a young person catches his first fish and falls in love with the Smelt Brook, Several years later he takes his son to the Smelt Brook. The next evening he eats a dozen smelts for supper! May those cycles continue forever.
Dale Lincoln of
Perry, Maine
for Skillin's Greenhouses
in Zephyrhills FL
March 1, 2009
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Award Shows Part 1 by KCB
KCB is a professional gardener and friend who does wonderful work in the Greater Portland area. KCB is also an accredited Master Gardener by the Cooperative Extension Service and we are proud to tell you that KCB rules as the 2008 Maine Master Gardener of the Year. And we are honored to have KCB as part of our Skillin's Garden Log family.
There was a time in my life that I never missed a televised award show. The Grammy’s®, The Golden Globes®, MTV® Music awards even The Emmy’s® but my favorite of them all was the Oscars ®.
From an early age I was drawn to the Academy Awards and felt very ‘in’ when I had not only seen the Movie of the Year but guessed the outcome before the envelope was open.
Years later I enlisted my husband to participate in the quest to see all the movies nominated in the major categories. One year we were behind in our viewing which resulted in a mini movie marathon. Less than 48 hours to the Sunday night Red Carpet extravaganza we had four movies yet to view. The day of the event found us jumping from one theater in the multi-plex to another. Popcorn overload, butt numbing; those were the days. Or were they?
I am somewhat saddened yet gladdened that I did not see any of this years highly proclaimed and oft nominated movies. Nevertheless, I was prepared to spend the past Sunday night glued to the television to see people get dressed up and excited about a bunch of stuff I knew nothing about. Some how I could not stay focused. Something called to me. Ah, yes, the great outdoors.
Perhaps I was experiencing cabin fever. Maybe it had to do with the time of the storm as well as the day. When most people were tucked in the warmth of their homes quietly ending the weekend that was, I donned my flannel lined jeans, water proof parker and ‘Bean Boots’ to head for the streets. It was as if I was alone in the world.
The side streets of my neighborhood were barely plowed and the sidewalks were non-existent. The lack of motorized vehicles allowed for me to utilize the roads as my path. Soon I found my way to the area of Portland known as Back Cove.
The sky still heavy with precipitation glowed silver. My exposed nose and eyes tingled and through my minimalist view I did detect huddled mounds of coal gray along the frozen water surface. Tiptoeing to get a closer look I discovered a gaggle (or 2) of Canada Geese bunkered down for the duration. My muffled footsteps were more about the atmosphere than the covering on my ears.
A kind of a hush enveloped. Not a sound could be heard.
Alone, but not lonely. Windows of nearby houses put forth a gold haziness. Perhaps within their walls the occupants cursed the weather. I embraced it.
Alternatively, they may be glued to the television cheering for their favorite actor while I turned my back on the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. The out-of-doors is my science. Gardening is my art.
For years I fantasized that someday I will be among the beautiful people in attendance at the various world renowned award shows. An A-List attendee, a nominee, a winner. No matter, I would dress for the part. Somewhat a realist this aspiration as changed.
Nevertheless, there is one award show I will not miss. Preview Night at the Portland Flower Show is where you will find me this March 11th. Visions of a nomination, a win, a following, often occupy my thoughts. Will someone put a microphone in my face and ask ‘Who are you wearing?’ LL Bean, with a touch of vintage supplied by Goodwill. For now I will satisfy my soul mingling among the nominated and ultimate winners. Some I know very well. We have a common bond. The love of our art and science.
It is not often we have the opportunity to attend an event such as is the Portland Flower Show. With the canceling of the Bangor and Boston Shows, The Portland Company Complex will be as hot a destination as the Kodak Theater in LA. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk among the stars of the horticultural winners. See you there…
KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
February 24, 2009
There was a time in my life that I never missed a televised award show. The Grammy’s®, The Golden Globes®, MTV® Music awards even The Emmy’s® but my favorite of them all was the Oscars ®.
From an early age I was drawn to the Academy Awards and felt very ‘in’ when I had not only seen the Movie of the Year but guessed the outcome before the envelope was open.
Years later I enlisted my husband to participate in the quest to see all the movies nominated in the major categories. One year we were behind in our viewing which resulted in a mini movie marathon. Less than 48 hours to the Sunday night Red Carpet extravaganza we had four movies yet to view. The day of the event found us jumping from one theater in the multi-plex to another. Popcorn overload, butt numbing; those were the days. Or were they?
I am somewhat saddened yet gladdened that I did not see any of this years highly proclaimed and oft nominated movies. Nevertheless, I was prepared to spend the past Sunday night glued to the television to see people get dressed up and excited about a bunch of stuff I knew nothing about. Some how I could not stay focused. Something called to me. Ah, yes, the great outdoors.
Perhaps I was experiencing cabin fever. Maybe it had to do with the time of the storm as well as the day. When most people were tucked in the warmth of their homes quietly ending the weekend that was, I donned my flannel lined jeans, water proof parker and ‘Bean Boots’ to head for the streets. It was as if I was alone in the world.
The side streets of my neighborhood were barely plowed and the sidewalks were non-existent. The lack of motorized vehicles allowed for me to utilize the roads as my path. Soon I found my way to the area of Portland known as Back Cove.
The sky still heavy with precipitation glowed silver. My exposed nose and eyes tingled and through my minimalist view I did detect huddled mounds of coal gray along the frozen water surface. Tiptoeing to get a closer look I discovered a gaggle (or 2) of Canada Geese bunkered down for the duration. My muffled footsteps were more about the atmosphere than the covering on my ears.
A kind of a hush enveloped. Not a sound could be heard.
Alone, but not lonely. Windows of nearby houses put forth a gold haziness. Perhaps within their walls the occupants cursed the weather. I embraced it.
Alternatively, they may be glued to the television cheering for their favorite actor while I turned my back on the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. The out-of-doors is my science. Gardening is my art.
For years I fantasized that someday I will be among the beautiful people in attendance at the various world renowned award shows. An A-List attendee, a nominee, a winner. No matter, I would dress for the part. Somewhat a realist this aspiration as changed.
Nevertheless, there is one award show I will not miss. Preview Night at the Portland Flower Show is where you will find me this March 11th. Visions of a nomination, a win, a following, often occupy my thoughts. Will someone put a microphone in my face and ask ‘Who are you wearing?’ LL Bean, with a touch of vintage supplied by Goodwill. For now I will satisfy my soul mingling among the nominated and ultimate winners. Some I know very well. We have a common bond. The love of our art and science.
It is not often we have the opportunity to attend an event such as is the Portland Flower Show. With the canceling of the Bangor and Boston Shows, The Portland Company Complex will be as hot a destination as the Kodak Theater in LA. Don’t miss this opportunity to walk among the stars of the horticultural winners. See you there…
KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
February 24, 2009
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Invited to Lunch by Dale Lincoln
Kind friend Dale Lincoln checks in a great story of some memorable "invites" throughout the year:
In late August 1943 a package arrived with the mail. It made me happy. The khaki shirt and khaki pants, (my back to school clothes from Sears and Roebuck), would make me look like a soldier when I started Grade 2. For a dress rehearsal my mother gave me a bath in the galvanized wash tub, dressed me up, and sent me on an errand to my grandmother’s store.
At the end of the half-mile walk “Grammie Thompson” showed enthusiasm when she told me how nice I looked. The day is remembered as being extra special because it was my first trip to the store alone. When a person “solos” they make their own decisions. When my grandmother asked if I would like a piece of freshly baked blueberry pie and a glass of milk, there was no hesitation with my answer. The milk was cold, the pie was delicious, my hair was red, and my khaki outfit was rapidly turning purple! Upon returning home my mother “showed enthusiasm” and commented about my appearance! I think some water, plus the bar of yellow laundry soap; the wash board;, and mother’s elbow grease, helped remove the blueberry stains. That was all part of my first time of being invited to lunch.
My mother wanted her kids to have good manners. She gave lots of instructions. Upon returning home, after those rare occasions of being invited to lunch, my mother always asked a series of questions: “Did you take your hat off in the house?” “Did you wait ‘til everyone sat down before you started eating? “Did you say “Please,” and “Thank You?” and “What did they have for lunch?” I became used to her routine. One day, as a teenager, my friend Maynard invited me to his home for lunch. After returning to my home, and before my mother started asking questions, I said to her; “The beans were good but the bread was dry. I told Maynard’s mother that the soldiers at Valley Forge would have really loved that bread because it was fresh then!” My mother started to have a fit, then learned I was only joking.
Sometimes the conditions that surround the luncheon or dinner make the occasion more memorable. On day my uncle and cousin invited me to lunch aboard their boat while they were dragging scallops in Cobscook Bay. The fried potatoes were delicious and the scallops, right out of the cast iron skillet, taught me the true meaning of “fresh fish.”
After completing the Boston Marathon on a cold rainy day in 1970, the racing committee invited all runners to lunch at the Prudential Center. A bowl of beef stew and a cup of tea couldn't have tasted better.
During World War II, a few months after my experience with Grandmother Thompson’s blueberry pie, my brother and I arrived at our Grandmother Spinney’s home at Eastport. Her daughter, our Aunt Evelyn, was also living there at the time. Her husband was in the service and stationed in Europe. We were invited to lunch and Aunt Evelyn was the cook. I have never forgotten how good the homemade bread and bowl of cream style corn tasted that day. It was like a fancy banquet! (For me, bread and cream style corn can make a good lunch any day.)
After the War, Aunt Evelyn became a world traveler. Several years passed before Aunt Evelyn and I had a chance to reminisce about her nice luncheon back in the 1940’s. She remembered the event and said it was very easy to choose what to serve us for lunch that day. The can of corn and bread was about all she had in the house!
About fifty years after the War, Aunt Evelyn made several summer visits to my home in Perry and she would stay a few days. During her visit she always took me and Elsie out to dine at a nice restaurant. One day Elsie had to take her mother to a doctor's appointment and Aunt Evelyn and I were home alone at lunchtime; There were a lot of groceries in my home--- but I was the cook. The lunch menu was simple: Store bread, butter, and cream style corn. Before the meal we took time to thank God for the food and for helping us in so many ways through the years. During lunch we had a nice chat about living back in “those good old days.” As the luncheon ended, Aunt Evelyn said she really enjoyed my cooking!
Even here in Florida, friends are still making good memories by inviting me to lunch!
Dale Lincoln of
Perry, Maine
for Skillin's Greenhouses
in Zephyrhills FL
Febuary 22, 2009
In late August 1943 a package arrived with the mail. It made me happy. The khaki shirt and khaki pants, (my back to school clothes from Sears and Roebuck), would make me look like a soldier when I started Grade 2. For a dress rehearsal my mother gave me a bath in the galvanized wash tub, dressed me up, and sent me on an errand to my grandmother’s store.
At the end of the half-mile walk “Grammie Thompson” showed enthusiasm when she told me how nice I looked. The day is remembered as being extra special because it was my first trip to the store alone. When a person “solos” they make their own decisions. When my grandmother asked if I would like a piece of freshly baked blueberry pie and a glass of milk, there was no hesitation with my answer. The milk was cold, the pie was delicious, my hair was red, and my khaki outfit was rapidly turning purple! Upon returning home my mother “showed enthusiasm” and commented about my appearance! I think some water, plus the bar of yellow laundry soap; the wash board;, and mother’s elbow grease, helped remove the blueberry stains. That was all part of my first time of being invited to lunch.
My mother wanted her kids to have good manners. She gave lots of instructions. Upon returning home, after those rare occasions of being invited to lunch, my mother always asked a series of questions: “Did you take your hat off in the house?” “Did you wait ‘til everyone sat down before you started eating? “Did you say “Please,” and “Thank You?” and “What did they have for lunch?” I became used to her routine. One day, as a teenager, my friend Maynard invited me to his home for lunch. After returning to my home, and before my mother started asking questions, I said to her; “The beans were good but the bread was dry. I told Maynard’s mother that the soldiers at Valley Forge would have really loved that bread because it was fresh then!” My mother started to have a fit, then learned I was only joking.
Sometimes the conditions that surround the luncheon or dinner make the occasion more memorable. On day my uncle and cousin invited me to lunch aboard their boat while they were dragging scallops in Cobscook Bay. The fried potatoes were delicious and the scallops, right out of the cast iron skillet, taught me the true meaning of “fresh fish.”
After completing the Boston Marathon on a cold rainy day in 1970, the racing committee invited all runners to lunch at the Prudential Center. A bowl of beef stew and a cup of tea couldn't have tasted better.
During World War II, a few months after my experience with Grandmother Thompson’s blueberry pie, my brother and I arrived at our Grandmother Spinney’s home at Eastport. Her daughter, our Aunt Evelyn, was also living there at the time. Her husband was in the service and stationed in Europe. We were invited to lunch and Aunt Evelyn was the cook. I have never forgotten how good the homemade bread and bowl of cream style corn tasted that day. It was like a fancy banquet! (For me, bread and cream style corn can make a good lunch any day.)
After the War, Aunt Evelyn became a world traveler. Several years passed before Aunt Evelyn and I had a chance to reminisce about her nice luncheon back in the 1940’s. She remembered the event and said it was very easy to choose what to serve us for lunch that day. The can of corn and bread was about all she had in the house!
About fifty years after the War, Aunt Evelyn made several summer visits to my home in Perry and she would stay a few days. During her visit she always took me and Elsie out to dine at a nice restaurant. One day Elsie had to take her mother to a doctor's appointment and Aunt Evelyn and I were home alone at lunchtime; There were a lot of groceries in my home--- but I was the cook. The lunch menu was simple: Store bread, butter, and cream style corn. Before the meal we took time to thank God for the food and for helping us in so many ways through the years. During lunch we had a nice chat about living back in “those good old days.” As the luncheon ended, Aunt Evelyn said she really enjoyed my cooking!
Even here in Florida, friends are still making good memories by inviting me to lunch!
Dale Lincoln of
Perry, Maine
for Skillin's Greenhouses
in Zephyrhills FL
Febuary 22, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Old Habits by KCB
KCB is a professional gardener and friend who does wonderful work in the Greater Portland area. KCB is also an accredited Master Gardener by the Cooperative Extension Service and we are proud to tell you that KCB rules as the 2008 Maine Master Gardener of the Year. And we are honored to have KCB as part of our Skillin's Garden Log family.
Old dogs can be taught new tricks. They can even win the most sought after prize as was evidenced by the Best in Show winner at the recently held Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
‘Stump’, a Sussex Spaniel, at the age of 10 years plus 6 weeks, is the oldest dog to ever have been bestowed the grandest of titles in “dogdom”. This feat in itself is remarkable added to the fact that Stump recently came out of retirement to become eligible for the “WKC”. The floppy eared, golden-red canine was forced to retire from the show ring when a mysterious illness had him facing death. A miraculous recovery allowed Stump to spend his days in a pampered pouch’s paradise.
With less than a week to show time, this often beribboned dog would be entered into the most prestigious dog show of them all. What prompted this rebirth? Since the show I have read countless quotes by Stump’s owner-handler. The word ‘insane’ and ‘crazy’ along with ‘miracle’ are peppered throughout the interviews. One of my favorite references is the simple ‘Why not?’
Then why do most humans hesitate at taking chances? Why do we become so set in our ways that life progresses as if on auto-pilot? For 17 years the Munjoy Hill neighborhood of Portland was my home. It would not be an exaggeration to say that at least 5 times a week I find myself driving the old familiar route to ‘the hill’.
Another old habit that transpired this past weekend was a visit to Skillin’s. For more years than I can remember, the middle weekend in February has been Open House weekend at Skillin’s in Falmouth. I knew quite well the event was rescheduled to March. I was drawn. A habit, a customary adventure. I needed spring. I was not disappointed.
Forsythia, Lilac, tulips and daffodils blinded me with color. I was intoxicated by the muskiness of mulch.
I milled with the crowds, made a purchase or 2 and smiled at the old familiar message in the bright new sign informing the masses it is time to purchase Spring Bonds. (Just click http://www.skillins.com/springbond.html to purchase those Spring Bonds!)
Some familiarity is comfortable such as my visit to Skillin’s this past weekend. Other routines are just old habits that would best be served forgotten. Alternatively there are those at least put to rest for a while.
As gardeners we have more opportunities to begin anew than perhaps the average impassioned person. With a new season are new plants, new products, new ways in which to renew our landscape. This year Skillin’s changed the date of their Open House. This means I still have it to look forward to.
More than any other in recent memory I am energized by the reemergence of the gardening season. I am filled with new and exciting ideas. Creativity in not only the design but the economics. The more I research, the more I find my visions and wishes bring me around to tried and true ways. Organics. Natives. Natural. The co-mingling of the new and old. A blending.
An old dog found his way back to the show ring, being his first time in the canine ring of rings. A chance was taken. On a dream and a dare the deed was done. Stump is retiring for good this time.
Some of my current habits will be shelved. I will retain a few. Others will be fetched from a long ago storage. Would that make these old habits?
How are you planning for the planting season? Perhaps you too can come out of retirement, try the new, keep the old or revive the cherished.
Whatever the upcoming gardening season holds, it is never too soon to start. Never too late as well, as Stump so sportingly proved this year.
KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
February 18, 2009
Old dogs can be taught new tricks. They can even win the most sought after prize as was evidenced by the Best in Show winner at the recently held Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.
‘Stump’, a Sussex Spaniel, at the age of 10 years plus 6 weeks, is the oldest dog to ever have been bestowed the grandest of titles in “dogdom”. This feat in itself is remarkable added to the fact that Stump recently came out of retirement to become eligible for the “WKC”. The floppy eared, golden-red canine was forced to retire from the show ring when a mysterious illness had him facing death. A miraculous recovery allowed Stump to spend his days in a pampered pouch’s paradise.
With less than a week to show time, this often beribboned dog would be entered into the most prestigious dog show of them all. What prompted this rebirth? Since the show I have read countless quotes by Stump’s owner-handler. The word ‘insane’ and ‘crazy’ along with ‘miracle’ are peppered throughout the interviews. One of my favorite references is the simple ‘Why not?’
Then why do most humans hesitate at taking chances? Why do we become so set in our ways that life progresses as if on auto-pilot? For 17 years the Munjoy Hill neighborhood of Portland was my home. It would not be an exaggeration to say that at least 5 times a week I find myself driving the old familiar route to ‘the hill’.
Another old habit that transpired this past weekend was a visit to Skillin’s. For more years than I can remember, the middle weekend in February has been Open House weekend at Skillin’s in Falmouth. I knew quite well the event was rescheduled to March. I was drawn. A habit, a customary adventure. I needed spring. I was not disappointed.
Forsythia, Lilac, tulips and daffodils blinded me with color. I was intoxicated by the muskiness of mulch.
I milled with the crowds, made a purchase or 2 and smiled at the old familiar message in the bright new sign informing the masses it is time to purchase Spring Bonds. (Just click http://www.skillins.com/springbond.html to purchase those Spring Bonds!)
Some familiarity is comfortable such as my visit to Skillin’s this past weekend. Other routines are just old habits that would best be served forgotten. Alternatively there are those at least put to rest for a while.
As gardeners we have more opportunities to begin anew than perhaps the average impassioned person. With a new season are new plants, new products, new ways in which to renew our landscape. This year Skillin’s changed the date of their Open House. This means I still have it to look forward to.
More than any other in recent memory I am energized by the reemergence of the gardening season. I am filled with new and exciting ideas. Creativity in not only the design but the economics. The more I research, the more I find my visions and wishes bring me around to tried and true ways. Organics. Natives. Natural. The co-mingling of the new and old. A blending.
An old dog found his way back to the show ring, being his first time in the canine ring of rings. A chance was taken. On a dream and a dare the deed was done. Stump is retiring for good this time.
Some of my current habits will be shelved. I will retain a few. Others will be fetched from a long ago storage. Would that make these old habits?
How are you planning for the planting season? Perhaps you too can come out of retirement, try the new, keep the old or revive the cherished.
Whatever the upcoming gardening season holds, it is never too soon to start. Never too late as well, as Stump so sportingly proved this year.
KCB for Skillin's Greenhouses
February 18, 2009
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