Sprung

You know spring has sprung in NW PA when its time to dig leeks! Digging the pungent wild "onion" is right of passage for many and foraging in the forest for them after a long winter is a simple pleasure. The blue wild flower knows a good thing as it cozies up to my aromatic friend. Apparently leeks are also known as ramps in other parts of the country and for those who envision the grocery store version when a leek comes to mind haven't got a clue! Leeks are infamous for their odor. Garlic breath has nothing on leek breath! Well loved, but forgone during the work week as not to offend. There are 2 kinds of people - those who love and those who hate leeks - never met anyone in between. Everyone clamours to make dip and at the Stinkfest in May variety abounds in the leek dip contest. My ham leek potato soup hit the spot as I began running a fever the day after my quest and am still recovering (with the help of antibiotics). Leek chili will be on the menu this weekend and maybe a meatloaf to freeze to enjoy when the all to brief season of leeks is over. Grab a shovel, a bucket, and go get dirty!

Leaving the Nest

We took Garret to Wyotech on March 31 and he was so excited. He never expected to go away to school since he hated it sooo much. School had always created great strife between Garret and I since he was so apathetic towards it. He is smart and can learn anything when he is interested, but most of high school was pure drudgery for him. It tore me up how he just didn't care -when I knew he had so much potential.

If it hadn't been for the alternate schooling program our school district offers he probably would never have graduated. The whole social dynamic, popularity, cliches, - Garret found repulsive. With Wyotech being an automotive repair school the female presence is sparse, so I hope the culture is nothing like high school.

All I can say is i'm proud that my son is finally using his potential. I know he will do well and hope he makes friends.