27 MARCH 2023 FORSAKEN LAND

I can see by the calendar that time is marching forward. Here in Wyoming; however, we seem to be trapped in eternal winter. Nighttime temperatures have not climbed above freezing for months; and daytime temperatures have rarely exceeded more than ten degrees above. I am quite certain that autumn skipped us entirely, as I never had a chance to rake the few leaves we had, for adding to my compost pile throughout the winter months. In fact, I have not been able to turn the compost because it is completely frozen.

You may think, for frustrated gardeners like myself, why not just make a greenhouse? Certainly, a greenhouse has aided many gardeners who live even further north of here; but when I tell you that the weather here is brutal and inhospitable, it is no exaggeration. The winds that range between 25 MPH and over 50 MPH, on an almost continual basis, prevent one from doing even the simplest gardening tasks. Even going for a walk is far from enjoyable when you factor in the wind chill.

I would like to believe that having a greenhouse would solve my gardening dilemmas; but the wind would flatten it to the ground in no time at all. What is a gardener to do? I gaze out my window, watching the birds attempting to hang onto the birdfeeders that are hanging nearly horizontally in the wind. They are obviously struggling and I know they are grateful for the unfrozen water that I provide for them. There are very few trees here. Many of those that have managed to survive are bent over; and many that are still standing have suffered severe damage. If the weather alone is not challenging enough for them, the profuse use of herbicides and pesticides deals them still more to contend with. The drying winter winds and injury from string trimmers leaves them vulnerable to disease and insect infestations. While I lament my own frustrations, I am filled with compassion for the trees, in this land that has been seemingly forsaken. The resident flora have no choice but to endure stress on a daily basis. I, at least, have the option to leave, and never ever return.