Spring Thoughts

<a href=http:/www.wistariahurst.org>WistariaHurst</a> ... the old
Josiah Allen Skinner Mansion on Beech Street in Holyoke ... is again
abloom with its fabulous century od growth of traditional purple and
white Wistaria. The old mansion is a part of Holyoke's old mill past
(the Skinners ran spinning mills including silk -which brought our area
so many Mulberry trees).
I enjoy Wistaria and that house every spring -- especialy because my
Wistaria at home doesn't bllom. Solution? - It needs son --especially a
hlf day or afternoon son -- a materially unobstructed southeast or
southwest exposure - mine gets too much shaade by mid-day. So enjoy the
thought and beauty of it --the old house is also open for tours &
special event use.

On other points -- wine prices -- alleged higher becasue of fuel costs
-- don't fully believe it -- shop around. Certain South American imports
are cheper .. and expensive northern California costs sometimes are the
overhed reason ratthan fuel. So a look at <a
href=http://www.bigywines.com>Town & Country - Big Y WInes</a> can still
bring you a good varietal - like Gallo's Twin Creek Sauvignon Blandc at
$2.99 for a 750 (fifth). (That's central California's mass production
center.) Keep shopping and bring them down. Had mine with a casual
<i>paella</i> .. and you can get saffron for $1.29 in 500g packets at <a
href=http:/www.christmastreeshops.com>Christmas Tree Shops</a>
Other Area Events:
<a href=http//www.hampshire-hills.net>Hampshire Hills</a> <a
href=http://www.thebige.com>Big E Fairgrounds</a> - events year round at
West Springfield.