December 21 is the date of the 2025 Winter Solstice, and we can anticipate 10 or more weeks of dreary, cold, possibly sleety or snowy weather after that. What are we going to do until the end of February to keep from slipping into the winter doldrums? Sitting around in our pajamas, sipping tea and binge-watching old sit-coms, true crime, and “reality” shows is one option, but I would rather be outside, especially on temperate days.
On the Middle Peninsula, we will have many pleasant days with temperatures warm enough to complete chores we didn’t finish before Thanksgiving.
With the soil temperature down to 55-60 degrees, now is the perfect time to plant a bed or border of daffodil or tulip bulbs. Jim and I add some new cultivars every year. The cheerful blooms will refresh us in the spring.
On a day when the air temperature is between 55-60 degrees, pull out a paintbrush and give a fresh coat to mailbox posts and decorative gateposts. Other small painting and repair jobs abound once yo...