It's cold. It's cloudy. It's gloomy. In Oklahoma, we're told we may get snow tomorrow. Whoopee . . . let's all break out our party hats. Snow would cover up some of the brown and gray of the Oklahoma winter landscape for a day or two, and it would help protect plants from the cold yet to come. However, in southern states, it is often hazardous because we don't drive in it enough. Our street crews do their best, but it's just not our norm. Sigh. Folks, we still have two and a half more months of winter fun. Are you prepared to beat the winter blues? Here are my top ten ways to squash them. Take a walk, or go to the gym. Exercise is one of the best ways to beat Ole' Man Winter. Don't forget to lift weights. You'll need that strength for spring cleanup. Plan some...

Although our winter has been mild for the most part, we've had two extreme blasts roll out from the Arctic. They didn't contain snow, and although that's good for the roads, it isn't good for the garden. Extreme cold with no moisture or snow insulation blanket is a very bad thing. Oklahoma is in a drought, and the gardens feel it most of all. So, on a warmer day like today, go around and check your plants for heaving. Weather fluctuations causes the ground to shift and some plants to heave from the ground. Heucheras or coral bells as they are commonly called, are some of the most susceptible. Then, go ahead and water your garden. I'm turning on my irrigation system today because the weather is supposed to be good for at least two days in a row. The garden is thirsting for a drink, and so am I....

It's Bloom Day again, that once a month miracle hosted by Carol of May Dreams Gardens. I don't have much to show, but signs that some things are gearing up for spring are there. Some of the garden remains green like Rosa 'Cl. Old Blush' above. Except during the harshest winters, it stays green until January. Then, we get a cold snap like the one last week, and its leaves also turn a soft brown. Brown is everywhere I look, but I turn my head and ignore it, instead focusing on what's indoors. I have a few blooming Hippeastrum, bulbs formerly known as amaryllis. A little name swap-a-roo not unline the artist formerly known as Prince, who became the woman/man symbol for awhile and when it didn't suit him, became Prince again. It's all so confusing. No matter what they're called, the Hippeastrum put on quite the show this season....

It won't be long now. We're over halfway there.