Later this morning, we will take the third step indicating that the 2013 syrup season has begun--firing up the evaporator. We tapped on Tuesday and Wednesday and collected 120 gallons of sap late yesterday. The snow was sticky late in the day and we were breaking trail as we wound our way through the sugarbush. Managing a five gallon bucket on each arm while navigating the snow field made the effort quite the chore.  I take some consolation knowing that the trails between tapped trees and the bulk tanks will firm up with repeated use and make the task a little less challenging. Snowshoes continue to be the "uniform of the day" with at least two feet of snow remaining in the woods. After a couple of weeks of hauling sap, I begin to wonder if my sleeve length is longer and my height is even shorter than they were previously. One of these years, I may even be able to scratch my knees without bending at the waist.

This photo was taken last week as we tackled some of the prep work in anticipation of the season. Some folks came to work; some came to hang out. By the way, there is a box of dog biscuits on the counter in the sugarhouse kitchen. Help yourself.