March 22, 2009. Chevy Chase, Md. Spring.

The Farm just throbs to life in the Spring. As we were opening the gate three ducks flew up from the Creek. Our Canada Geese had arrived to take up residence in the pond. Fifty wild turkeys were along the field among the cattle and thirty two calves had been born this Spring. The birds have arrived too. A pair of red shouldered hawks were souring around one field. Bluebirds and tree swallows were busily making their nests in the bluebird boxes, with at least forty large robins were eating on the field beside the Hill House. Ken filled all the bird feeders, just so we could watch the variety of the birds. Flocks of gold finches have already arrived, but now their yellow is much brighter. The birds are everywhere. Spring has arrived at the farm.

We have my Brother and Sister-in-law to thank for all the pleasure we derive at the farm. And of course, our friend Alan Jay. Ken and I wanted a place in the country and we could not afford the place we wanted, so Dave and Irene agreed to buy our first place with us, both owning half. This was 1973. After a few years we bought them out and we have been grateful for there efforts ever since. Then one day in 1996, when asking Alan recommendations for the upgrade to our first house, Alan suggested we talk to Bill Taylor, who was selling his old farm. So Alan called Bill, who met us at the farm, where we shook hands to buy our new farm. Two years later, Alan was asked by the lady, who owns the 200 acres adjacent to us, if he knew anyone who wanted to buy her parent's property. He suggested us. She drove right over, where we were sitting drinking tea on the porch, and when she told us what she wanted for the land, we quickly shook hands once again, and the deal was struck. We are fortunate to have such a wonderful spot, but we are especially fortunate in the Spring.