CORNISH FLAT, N.H. – Overall, my gardens did well last summer despite the lack of rain, largely because of all that sunshine. Most of us had a wet spring and early summer, then a very dry summer and fall. For people planting new trees, shrubs and perennials it meant lots[Read More…]
Columns
Year In Review: Snowy winter conditions bookend year of drought
HARDWICK – After experiencing several years of winters with dramatic fluctuations in temperatures and precipitation types, 2025 was a pleasant surprise when it came to what many would call traditional Vermont winter conditions, with persistently cool temperatures allowing outdoor enthusiasts time to enjoy the snow before the transition to spring.[Read More…]
How very far I was from home
EAST MONTPELIER – The last few years, I’ve been traveling to my son’s house in Arkansas for Christmas. I’ll do the same this year. It’s such a treat, after rattling around alone in this house through the seasons, to be immersed in family life, children and grandchildren all over the[Read More…]
Ring out wild bells
“Ring Out, Wild Bells” is a poem written by Alfred, Lord Tennyson in the year of 1850, when he was appointed by Queen Victoria as England’s Poet Laureate. It was customary at the time to ring bells at full circle, a full arc, to mark the passing of the year.[Read More…]
Weeks Gone By
65 Years ago CUB SCOUTS CHRISTMAS PARTY Santa Claus arrived on Thursday at the American Legion rooms to spend the evening with the Cub Scouts, Den No. 4. The festivities opened with the singing of “Jingle Bells,” followed by a group singing of Christmas carols by the Cubs, relatives and[Read More…]
Where do bees go in winter?
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION – Step outside on a brisk December day, and you’re likely to be surrounded by bees. No, you’re not likely to observe a bee visiting your snowman or investigating your yellow parka while you shovel the walk; yet they are all around us, probably much closer than[Read More…]
Messy mix possible again
EAST HARDWICK — Moderating temperatures closed out the work week last week, with lows struggling to drop below freezing Thursday night under the influence of a southerly flow. Some snowpack was lost in the process, despite all of the early-season accumulation. Some additional warmth may reach the northeast just in[Read More…]
Chasing away the darkness
EAST MONTPELIER – As I write, it’s only a quarter past four in the afternoon, but I wouldn’t want to be walking in the woods right now without a light. Down at the foot of the driveway, the headlights of homebound traffic zoom past, and a soft snow sifts down[Read More…]
Lew-Smith talks about second book
HARDWICK – Last Tuesday evening, the Jeudevine, in partnership with the Galaxy Bookshop, hosted local author Jodi Lew-Smith for the official launch of her second novel, “Asa James.” The event was held in the Parker Ladd Community Room. About forty people attended. Galaxy Bookshop co-owner Andrea Jones introduced Lew-Smith, using[Read More…]
Weeks Gone By, Dec. 18, 1960
The Hardwick Gazette, 65 Years ago EAST HARDWICK ––– Village Nursing Home Mrs. Alice Carpenter, age 76, and patient at the Village Nursing Home since February 1960, died on Dec. 19. Mrs. Carpenter had been critically ill for the past week, during which she was visited several time by her daughter,[Read More…]
Weeks Gone By, Dec. 18, 1925
SUIT OF LONG STANDING FINALLY SETTLEDCaledonia County Grammar School Case in Which Towns of Hardwick and Concord and the University of Vermont Were Involved After being in the courts for a dozen or more years, the Caledonia County Grammar School case has been settled, and the towns of Hardwick and[Read More…]
Bird brain isn’t so bad
WHITE RIVER JUNCTION – Once meant as an insult, being called “bird brain” should really be considered a compliment, especially if the bird in question is a Black-capped Chickadee. Scientists have amassed decades of research demonstrating the cognitive powers of these small, feisty birds. As year-round northeastern residents, chickadees prepare[Read More…]
