"Motherhood: All love begins and ends there"
- Robert Browning (1812—1889)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair, warming trend (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8) with storms (9, 10, 11); showers, mainly in the northern part of the region (12, 13, 14) turning fair and warm (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22). Storms, mainly in the south (23, 24) returning to fair and warm weather (25, 26, 27, 28); showers in the north, storms in the south (29, 30, 31)

Full Moon: May’s Full Moon occurs on Tuesday, May 29th and has traditionally been called Flower Moon (or as the Huron Indians called it, Budding Moon) because of the many flowers that start to emerge and blossom during this month. Farmers came to refer to it as Mike Moon because of the noticeable increase in milk produced by their cows as the weather starts to warm.

Special Notes: National Day of Prayer, Thursday, May 3rd was established in 1952 at the direct suggestion of Reverend Billy Graham (1918–2018) and signed into law under Ronald Reagan in 1988. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on Saturday, May 5th. Rogation Sunday falls on May 6th, Ascension Day follows on Thursday, May 10th. The first day of Ramadan is Tuesday, May 15th, and World No Tobacco Day is on Tuesday, May 31st.

Holidays: Mothers are honored on her day, Sunday May 13th. A telephone call, a sentimental card, a nice flower arrangement, or just spending some quality time with her will make her feel special. Armed Forces Day is observed on Saturday, May 19th and Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 28th. Plan to do something special to mark the official start of the summer season with family and friends but don’t forget that this day was set aside for honoring those who have served in our military and those who are currently serving. Their service and sacrifice has protected our precious freedoms and ensures our way of life.

The Garden: Once your last frost data has passed, warm season crops can be planted. When the ground temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it is safe to begin planting Okra, Pumpkin, Sweet Potatoes, Eggplant, Peppers, Peanuts, Watermelon, Cow Peas, Black-eyed Peas, Crowder Peas, Butter Peas and Butter Beans. Keep a vigilante eye on the roses. Keep them sprayed for aphids and other pests and diseases such as black spot. It's still not too late to fertilize your trees and shrubs. Use a Rhododendron or Evergreen type of plant food to feed evergreens and other acid loving plants like Azaleas and Rhododendrons, Camellias and Junipers, etc. Use an all-purpose garden fertilizer (10-10-10) to feed roses, deciduous shrubs and trees. Be sure to water the fertilizer in thoroughly after it is applied.

Remove the wilting seed heads from Rhododendrons and Azaleas so that the plants energy can go to foliage growth and next year’s flowers, rather than seeds. Work lime in the soil around your Hydrangeas to produce pink flowers or Aluminum Sulphate for blue blooms. Remove any sucker growths from fruit trees as soon as they appear!

Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"While the truth may be painful to hear today, the wise man will benefit from it tomorrow"

"When I was a boy of fourteen, my father was so ignorant
I could not stand to have the old man around.
But when I got to be twenty-one,
I was astonished at how much he had learned in 7 years"
Mark Twain (1836-1875)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Storms, some severe (1, 2) with fair and warm weather (3, 4, 5); storms, severe in the southern part of the region (6, 7, 8) returning to fair and warm temperatures (9, 10, 11, 12). More storms (13, 14, 15) turning fair and warm again (16, 17, 18, 19); showers, some storms again in the south (20, 21) returning to fair and very warm (22, 23, 24, 25, 26). Showers (27, 28) with fair and warm (29, 30).

Tornado Watch: The Town and Country Almanack sees possible tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region the 1st and 2nd of June.

Full Moon: June’s Full Moon will occur on Wednesday, June 27th. It has commonly been referred to as Strawberry Moon because the first strawberries of the season become ripe for the picking (and eating!) in June. And because roses start to show their gorgeous blooms at the beginning of the month, it has been also called Rose Moon.

Special Notes: Summer officially starts with the Summer Solstice that occurs on Thursday, June 21st. June is a typical month for graduations so honor your favorite student this month when he or she graduates from high school or college. This is a major milestone so mark the achievement with a special event or memorable gift.

Holidays: Honor ‘Old Glory and display it proudly on Flag Day, Thursday, June 14th, make sure you are displaying it properly. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 17th. Do something really nice for the "old man" like breakfast in bed, an outing to his favorite sports event, or a special dinner out.

The Garden: Additional pruning may be required in June of fast-growing plants, such as juniper, privet and yew. This will help promote new growth and also maintain a desirable shape during the growing season. Cut back perennials like Shasta daisy, black-eyed Susan, coneflower, and lavender after first bloom to encourage a second round of flowers in the Fall.

Cut back fuchsia, geranium, and margarite to encourage branching. Plant or sow summer annuals such as nasturtiums, vinca, verbena, geraniums, phlox, marigolds, lobelia, impatiens, cosmos, sunflowers, zinnias, and alyssum. Feed annuals and remove spent flowers to promote another round of flowers.

It’s not too late to start warm-season crops such as corn, beans, tomatoes, squash, peppers, and eggplant. Watch for insects everywhere! When you see them (and you will!), immediately wash them or pick them off plants before they can lay eggs and multiply. Use fungicide where diseases usually are a problem, especially on roses. If you cut flowers for fresh in-door arrangements early in the morning, they will stay fresher and more vibrant much longer.

Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Every person has two educations – one which he receives from others, and one more important which he gives himself"

"Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves"
Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Storms (1, 2); warm and humid (3, 4, 5) with off-shore hurricane, heavy rain in the eastern part of the region (6, 7). Fair and warm (8, 9, 10, 11, 12) with more storms, heavy rain in the south (13, 14, 15); fair again and very warm (16, 17, 18) with Atlantic hurricane, severe storms in the east (19, 20, 21). Fair and hot (22, 23, 24, 25) with more storms (26, 27, 28) turning hot and humid (29, 30, 31).

Tornado Watch: Watch out for possible tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region from the 18th to the 21st of July.

Full Moon: July’s Full Moon, which occurs on July 27th. Many Native Americans refer to it as Thunder Moon because of the increased number of thunderstorms, some quite severe, that occur during this month. Other tribes have called it Buck Moon due the rapid growth of antlers on young bucks in July, Hay Moon since hay tended to ripen at this time of year, and Ripe Corn Moon because of the appearance of young corn on the stalks.

Special Notes: Get ready for the ‘Dog Days of Summer’ that begin on Tuesday, July 3rd and continue into mid-August.

Holidays: Celebrate Independence Day on Wednesday, July 4th! This most famous day in U.S. history, in 1776, witnessed The Continental Congress passing a resolution saying, "these United Colonies are, and of right, ought to be, free and independent states". When enjoying the holiday, be sure to remember sunscreen. Apply frequently, especially if swimming or engaged in strenuous activities.

The Garden: During the dry summer months, remember to mow the lawn when it is high and mow less often. Taller grass withstands drought better because its blades shade the soil. Invest in a rain gauge and keep track of your rain. This is not only helpful, but fun as well. Allow roses to rest in late-July. Do not fertilize, but continue spraying, and give them a light pruning to encourage new Fall growth. Repot houseplants that have been kept outdoors if roots start to crowd their containers. If you have to divide plants, give them a chance to recover from the disruption to their root system by keeping them in the shade for at least a week. Deadhead some perennials, either for continued bloom, or for improved foliage. Leggy annuals may need to be pruned back to encourage new growth and more flowering. Some annuals don’t take hot weather and may need to be replaced. This is the last month to plant these veggies for a fall crop: snap beans, peas, cucumbers, carrots, kohlrabi, summer squash, early sweet corn, and green onions, among others.

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living:

"Do not regard liberty and freedom so lightly that you forget its value and take it for granted."

"I bet deep down you still wish your mom would take you
clothes shopping every August for the new school year."
Bridget Willard (1953- )
 

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Hazy, hot, and humid (1, 2, 3); offshore hurricane, storms mainly in the eastern part of the region (4, 5, 6) turn hot and humid again (7, 8, 9). Showers and storms (10, 11, 12) turning fair and not so hot (13, 14, 15, 16). More fair weather, very warm (19, 20, 21, 22, 23) with more showers (24, 25, 26) and even more showers, mainly in the south (27, 28, 29). Fair and very warm (30, 31).

Full Moon: August’s full moon occurs on August 26th. Many Native American tribes have referred to it as Fruit Moon or Ripe Moon because of the many fruits and vegetables that become ripe during the month. And since August 11th marks the end of the ‘Dog Days of Summer’, it has also been called Dog Moon.

Holidays: Labor Day will be here before you know it, signaling the end of summer so enjoy it while you can!

The Garden: August is not too late to sow Portulaca (moss rose). They will bloom in about three weeks from seed. Stop feeding trees and shrubs after mid-August. You don’t want to promote new growth that will not have time to fully mature before winter sets in. Summer blooming shrubs should be pruned for shape after they have finished flowering. Remove any dead or diseased branches. To encourage more flowers, azaleas should be trimmed after they bloom in the spring and before the end of August.

Think about potting herbs you plan to move indoors for the winter. Don’t move them in just yet but get them accustomed to their containers early. Rosemary, thyme, and tarragon are the best candidates for this. Keep the weeds pulled, before they have a chance to flower and go to seed again. Otherwise, you will be fighting newly germinated weed seed for the next several years. Weeds in the garden are harmful because they rob your plants of water and nutrients, harbor insects and diseases, and, on occasion grow tall enough to shade your flowers and plants. Change the water in your bird bath regularly, and keep it filled. Standing water is less healthy for the birds, and may become a breeding ground for mosquito larvae.

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living:

"The time to make friends is before you need them."

"Although September 11th was horrible, it didn't threaten
the survival of the human race, like nuclear weapons do".
Stephen Hawking (1942-2018)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair, rather warm (1, 2, 3) and showers (4, 5). Fair and warm (6, 7, 8, 9) with heavy rain in the southern part of the region (10, 11, 12). Fair and warm again (13, 14, 15) with more showers and storms (16, 17) fair and warm (18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23) with still more showers (24, 25) with the month ending with fair and cooler weather (26, 27, 28, 29, 30).

Full Moon: September’s Full Moon is most famously known as the Harvest Moon. It is the Full Moon that falls closest to the Autumnal Equinox. During this time, the moon would rise very soon after the sun would set on several successive days, giving the farmer a few extra hours of ‘light’ and a little more time to finish up their daily chores. This year, the Autumnal Equinox will occur on Saturday, September 22nd and will signal the beginning of Autumn. The Full Moon closest to that date will occur on Thursday, October 5th and is therefore, the Harvest Moon of 2018.

Special Notes: The Autumnal Equinox occurs on Saturday, September 22nd. The 2019 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack will be on newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region the week of September 7th. Save some time and go to www.almanack.com, order a copy today, and have it delivered right to your front door! Also, consider taking advantage of our very popular 3-year subscription. It guarantees no price increase and will deliver The Almanack with no charge for shipping for the next 3 years. Or become a Friend of The Almanack (FOTA) and get access to our new on-line digital version of not just one but TWO editions of your favorite almanac, receive great pricing on hardcopies, and so much more. Great deals for a great almanac!

Holidays: Labor Day falls on the first Monday of the month which is September 3rd in 2018. Citizenship Day is observed on Monday September 17th, Rosh Hashanah begins on Sunday, September 9th, and Yom Kippur begins on Tuesday, September 18th.

The Garden: Make a long-range plan to gradually convert your current landscape to the one you desire. Don’t forget to consider what your flower garden might need. Plant spring-flowering bulbs such as daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips 6 to 8 weeks before the first frost. Don't pull out any ornamental plantings until you have the time and resources to replace them. Start taking cuttings of your annual plants to bring indoors and carry through the winter. Geranium, coleus, fuschia, and other plants do best when stem cuttings are rooted and kept in pots indoors through the winter. Be sure to place pots where they receive plenty of light. Bring summer vacationing houseplants back indoors while the windows are still open. Inspect every plant very closely for any hitchhiking pests!

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living:

"Be an important part of the community in which you live by helping to make it a better place each day."

"The trees are in their autumn beauty,
The woodland paths are dry,
Under the October twilight the water Mirrors a still sky."
William Butler Yeats (1865-1939)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch:  Fair and mild (1, 2) with heavy rain, storms in the southern part of the region (3, 4, 5); fair and cool (6, 7, 8) with more showers mainly in the south (9, 10). Fair and cool again (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16) with yet more showers in the south (17, 18, 19). Cloudy, cool (20, 21, 22, 23) with rain and possibly snow in the north (24, 25, 26); fair and colder (27, 28, 29) with more rain and some snow in the north (30, 31).

Full Moon: October’s Full Moon with occur on Wednesday, October 24th. The name traditionally given to October’s Full Moon is Hunter’s Moon because of the extra light it provided many Native Americans who were able to extend their hunt for food into the early evening. It was also referred to as Moon of Falling Leaves and Yellow Leaf Moon and by the Cree Tribe because many of the trees lose the last of their leaves during the month and because of the many leaves turning that color during October. It also been known the Big Feast Moon because of the bountiful harvests and Fall celebrations going on at this time.

Special Notes: Take advantage of the many autumn celebrations across the Mid-Atlantic Region. Check local newspaper for ones to be held nearest you and make plans to attend with the whole family. Many have contests for the best scarecrow or Jack O’ Lantern carving. This is a great opportunity to spend quality time with your children and help develop their imaginations and express their creativity (and your own, too!). National Fire Prevention Week in 2019 is October 7-13. Make sure all basic items such as flashlights, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and escape ladders are functional and ready to go if needed. Remember to get your flu shots early this year!

Holidays: Columbus Day falls on Monday, October 8th and United Nations Day is celebrated on Wednesday, the 24th. Halloween falls on Wednesday, October 31st.

The Garden: One last effort at weeding will help to improve the appearance of your garden throughout the winter. Any weed that you can eliminate from the garden this Fall will possibly prevent thousands of weed seeds from sprouting in the garden next Spring! Mulching Fall planted perennials will keep the soil warmer longer, allowing root growth to continue. The longer your house plants were allowed to remain outside in the Fall, the more shock they will go through when they are finally moved indoors. If you haven't brought them in yet, do it now!

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living:

"Keeping one’s eyes, ears, and mind open but mouth closed often leads to a more thorough understanding of life’s problem."

"Falling leaves on the grass in the November sun
bring more happiness than the daffodils"
- Cyril Connolly (1903-1973

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Snow in the northern part in the region, rain in the south (1) with fair and cold weather to follow (2, 3, 4, 5). Heavy snow in the north, showers in the south (6, 7, 8); fair and cold again (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) with more snow, mainly in the south; fair and much colder (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29) with light snow (30).

Full Moon: November’s Full Moon will occur on Friday, November 23rd. Many Native American tribes have called it both Dying Grass Moon and Falling Leaf Moon because of the colder days and heavy frosts killing off most of the grasses and almost all of the leaves have fallen during this month. And because of the high winds that would sweep through many regions this time of year, many other tribes have called it Big Wind Moon.

Special Notes: Remember to ‘fall back’ on Sunday, November 4th at 2 a.m. when Daylight Savings ends for 2018.

Holidays: Elections are traditionally held on the first Tuesday of November. This year, they will be held on Tuesday, November 6th. Please remember that every vote counts! It is most important, now more than ever, to remember that this is the time for your voice to be heard. Sunday, November 11th is Veteran’s Day when we honor all of our military service branches. We must never, ever forget the sacrifice that millions of servicemen and women have made in the past and especially those who continue to serve, many who are in harm’s way. Without their service and dedication, we would not have the freedom to create our own destiny, speak our minds, or practice the religion of our choice. Celebrate Thanksgiving this year on Thursday, November 22nd with family and friends. We all have so much to be thankful for and we should carry that thankfulness beyond the holiday season.

The Garden: Even though lawns rest in winter, they still need all the winter sunlight they can get so don’t put away the rake until all of the leaves and pine needles have fallen and you can remove them. Keep watering until the ground temperature reaches 40 degrees F.

Now is the time to start those forced bulbs that were placed in a cool area in August or September. If you've decided to store your bulbs indoors for the winter, try storing them in a pail filled with sawdust after they have dried off from being in the ground. Pot up some spring flowering bulbs for indoor color during the winter. Store the pots in a cool, dark place, until new growth emerges from the soil, and then move them to a bright window.

Winter heating dries the air out in your home considerably. Help your house plants survive by misting them or placing the pots on a pebble filled tray of water to ensure adequate humidity and moisture. Take the time to organize, clean, and sharpen your garden tools. Keep them from underfoot, cleaned, and sharpened and they will be ready to go come Spring.

John Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Do not regard liberty and freedom so lightly that you forget its value and take it for granted

"I heard the bells of Christmas Day; their old familiar carols play, and wild and sweet the word repeat of peace on earth, good will to men!" - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (1802-1882)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Snow, mainly in the northern part of the region (1); fair and cold (2, 3, 4) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (5,6,7). Fair and very cold (8, 9, 10, 11)with another Nor’easter, heavy snow (12, 13, 14, 15). Arctic cold wave (16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24) with snow, stormy, mainly in the south (25, 26); fair and cold (27, 28, 29) with more snow in the south (30, 31).

Full Moon: The Full Moon for December occurs on Saturday, December 22nd. Many Native Americans referred to December’s Full Moon as Cold Moon (for obvious reasons!). It also has been known as the BEAVER MOON and sometimes Ice-Forming Moon because beavers are quite busy trying to complete their dams and lodges before winter sets in and because ice starts to appear on lakes and ponds at this time of year.

Holidays: In 2018, Hanukah begins at sunset on Tuesday, December 2nd, the Winter Solstice occurs on Friday, December 21st, Christmas falls on Tuesday, December 25th, and Kwanzaa begins on Wednesday, December 26th. However you celebrate, enjoy time with family and friends and resolve to keep that joyful and giving spirit alive throughout the entire coming year! New Year’s Eve falls on Monday, December 31st. Consider attending a First Night Celebration this year. If your town or municipality doesn’t hold one, go to www.firstnight.com/cities to find a celebration nearest you. It is a safe way to enjoy a family-oriented evening of fun, food, and entertainment on the very last/first night of the year.

The Garden: With most of the clean up behind you, now enjoy a rest! The days are becoming too short and getting colder to push to do any more things outdoors. Live Christmas trees are still a tradition in some homes. Check it’s freshness by tapping the branches. Very few needles should fall. Stroke the branches to make sure the needles are resilient and not brittle, have an aromatic fragrance, and good green color for the species. Before bringing the tree indoors, cut 1-inch off the bottom before placing in the water receptacle, and fill it with ½ cup regular 7-up plus 1-quart water or tree preserver. It is never too soon to start planning for next year. Go to www.smartgardener.com/ for a free online vegetable garden layout tool that will help you to successfully grow healthy and tasty food.

John Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"It’s not the size nor cost of the gift that makes it meaningful, but the thought that goes into its selection."

"A New Year's resolution is something that
goes in one year and out the other"
Anonymous

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Lake-effect snow (1, 2, 3) with fair and very cold temperatures (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11); Nor’easter, heavy snow (12, 13) with periods of more lake-effect snow (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22). More snow (23, 24) turning fair and not as cold (25, 26, 27, 28, 29); yet more snow (30, 31).

Full Moon: The first Full Moon of 2019 will occur on Monday, January 21st. While it has often been referred to as Hunger Moon by many Native American tribes because of the scarcity of food at this time of year, it has also been called WOLF MOON because of the increased boldness of wolf packs venturing closure and closer to their camps looking for food.

Special Notes: With its 2019 edition, The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack turned 223 years old! Its founder, John Gruber, would certainly be proud that his humble publication, first published in 1797 and continuously ever since, would be hailed today as not only the second oldest almanac in the United States but is the only almanac in America still to be published by his heirs. We pledge to continue improving our look, providing those weather forecasts, and offering useful information and inspiration to help one survive in today’s world.

Holidays: New Year’s Day in 2019 falls on Tuesday, January 1st. The birthday of famed civil rights activist leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929) is celebrated on the third Monday of January. This year, it is Monday, January 21st. Take time to remember this great leader on this day and reflect on the great social changes he brought about in this country and the ultimate sacrifice he made pursuing unity and racial harmony which is still elusive today.

The Garden: Give your balled-and-burlapped Christmas tree a permanent home in your landscape. If you're not ready or able to plant a tree now, move it outside to a sheltered location and supply water as needed. Pick up a few gardening books and magazines that are available, clipping out pictures that appeal to you. Sketch out the designs you would like to incorporate into your own garden. Collect nursery and seed catalogs now and remember to place any orders early. Before you order, check out return policies, guarantees, and shipping charges. Get together with some of your ‘gardening friends’ and combine orders to save on shipping costs. Time your early gardening and lawn activities with anticipated sales at local merchants. They are sometimes a great deal and have their products available immediately and at no extra cost (i.e. shipping).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Resolutions are only as good as the intent to keep them"

You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all
of the people some of the time, but you can not fool all
of the people all of the time"
- Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Snow (1), fair and cold (2, 3, 4). Snow, mainly in the southern part of the region (5, 6, 7) turning fair and cold (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13). Light snow mainly in the north (14, 15) with fair and milder weather (16, 17). Showers in the south (18, 19) with colder temperatures and lake-effect snow (20, 21). Windy, cold (22, 23) with a Nor’easter bringing heavy snow (24, 25, 26) turning fair but quite cold (27, 28).

Full Moon: February’s Full Moon will occur on Monday, the 21st. In many certain parts of North America, Native Americans suffered very harsh winters and saw the deepest snow during this month. They called it SNOW MOON and because there was such an extreme scarcity of game to hunt, it was also aptly called Hunger Moon.

Special Notes: Watch out for "Punxsutawney Phil" as he makes his much-anticipated appearance on Saturday, February 2nd to ‘predict’ the coming of Spring. It will be determined by this little marmota monax’s reaction to the day’s weather. If it is sunny and he sees his shadow, he will retreat underground for another 6 weeks of Winter! If it is cloudy and he doesn’t get scared by his own shadow, Spring will come early in 2019.

Holidays: Celebrate the Christian Festival of Lights, or Candlemas, on Saturday, February 2nd. It is on this day that many churches traditionally light more candles than usual during their daily services. The additional light not only made the day special but it was also believed that the additional light would provide protection from illness and plague in the coming year. Valentine’s Day, February 14th, falls on Thursday in 2019. Show that special someone just how much you appreciate their being a part of your life. The birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Tuesday, February 12th) and George Washington (Friday, the 22nd) are collectively celebrated on President’s Day which falls on Monday, February 18th to provide us with an extended holiday weekend. Enjoy!

The Garden: With some good news from our friend "Punxsutawney Phil", we can start thinking about things to do in an early Spring. Mid- to late-February is the time to fertilize shrubs and evergreens. Use an acid-type Rhododendron fertilizer to feed evergreens, conifers, broad leaf evergreens, Rhododendrons, Azaleas, and Camellias. Use an all-purpose fertilizer to feed Roses and other deciduous trees and shrubs. If you use granular type fertilizers, be sure to water it in thoroughly. It's a good time to stroll around and trim back any branches that were damaged by the ravages of Winter. If you haven't yet applied your dormant spray to your fruit trees, DO IT NOW!! Stored summer flowering bulbs may try to start into growth if they are subjected to heat. They should be kept very dry, and stored at 45E F. If they are shriveling, put them into slightly damp peat moss, but keep them cool! Your house plants may notice the longer days and begin growing. You can begin feeding them again.

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"You only reap what you sow, so be sure to spread more kindness and consideration for your fellow man than envy or ill will"

"It was one of those March days when the sun shines
hot and the wind blows cold: when it is summer in
the light, and winter in the shade"
Charles Dickens (1812-1870)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair, cold (1, 2, 3) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (4, 5, 6). Fair, cold again (7, 8, 9, 10, 11) with showers mainly in the southern part of the region (12, 13, 14). Fair, cool (15, 16, 17) with more showers (18, 19). Fair but colder (20, 21) with yet more showers, some snow in the north (22, 23). Fair and cool (24, 25) with storms mainly in the south (26, 27). Showers (28, 29) turning fair and cool (30, 31).

Full Moon: March’s Full Moon will occur on March 20th. Native Americans came to call it Sap Moon because sap begins to rise and run during this time of year. It has also been referred to as Worm Moon because earthworms begin to appear in abundance due to the warmer temperatures softening the frozen soil.

Special Notes: On Sunday, March 10th at 2 a.m. E.S.T, Daylight Savings will begin. Don’t forget to reset all of your clocks and watches and ‘spring’ ahead an hour. The Vernal Equinox will occur on Wednesday, March 20th and signals the arrival of Spring (at last!). March is known for its high winds so take advantage of that and "go fly a kite" with your kids. Nothing is as exhilarating except maybe flying itself!

Holidays: Ash Wednesday is March 6th in 2019 and the first Sunday in Lent is Sunday, March 10th. Be sure to wear something green in honor of St. Patrick on Sunday, March 17th.

The Farm: Best days for planting root crops (1, 2); weeding and stirring the soil (13, 14); planting above-ground crops (15, 16); planting root crops (21, 22); harvesting all crops (25, 26, 27); setting hens and incubators (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28); slaughtering/butchering meat (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13); transplanting (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13); harvesting and storing grain (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 26, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31).

The Garden: Get started early if the weather allows. Test your soil for pH to see if any amendments are necessary. A general rule of thumb is to add 4 lbs. of lime per 100 sq. ft. of garden for every pH point below 6.5, or 1 lb. of sulfur per 100 sq. ft. for every pH point above 7.5. March is prime time for feeding shrubs and perennials that bloom in the Summer months. Begin pruning early-flowering shrubs, roses, fruit trees, grapes, and raspberries. It’s time to start tomatoes, lettuce, and many other vegetable seeds indoors. And do try to plant your peas on St. Patrick’s Day!

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"If you don’t expect the impossible, you will never be disappointed"

"Our Spring has come at last with the soft laughter
of April suns and shadow of April showers.’
Byron Caldwell Smith (1849-1877)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair, colder (1, 2, 3) with light snow in the northern part of the region, rain in the south (4, 5, 6). Fair and cool (7, 8, 9) with showers, some snow in the north (10, 11, 12). Fair and cool again (13, 14, 15, 16, 17); storms (18, 19) returning to fair and cool weather (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26). Fair and cool yet again (27, 28) with scattered storms (27, 28); fair, warmer (29, 30).

Full Moon: April’s Full Moon will occur on Sunday, April 19th. It was called Pink Moon by many Native American tribes because of the pretty flowers as they bloom throughout the month. And because fishing typically improved during the month due to the warmer weather, it has been called Fish Moon.

Special Notes: In 2019, April Fool’s Day falls on Monday, April 1st. Watch out for pranks from family and friends that may be coming your way! Earth Day is observed on Monday, April 22nd. Call the Earth Day Network at 202-518-0044 or go to www.earthday.net for some interesting, fun, and easy activities that you and your family can do that will help promote a healthier relationship with Mother Earth!

Holidays: In 2019, Palm Sunday is April 14th, Good Friday is April 19th, and Easter Sunday is April 21st. Honor the resurrection of Jesus by attending the church of your chose.

The Garden: Now is the time to do some serious Spring "cleaning" in the garden. Trim back dead foliage and gather up winter’s detritus, such as small branches and excess leaves. Trees and shrubs like Azaleas, Rhododendrons, Spiraea, and Viburnums, if planted now, will provide some beautiful late Spring color. Test your underground sprinkling system by monitoring a full cycle to make sure it is still operating correctly. Inspect all sprinkler heads for cleaning, adjustment, or replacement

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (17, 18, 19, 24, 25); weeding and stirring the soil (9, 10); planting above-ground crops (11, 12, 20, 21); harvesting all crops (22, 23, 26, 27, 28); setting hens and incubators (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27); slaughtering and butchering meat (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11); transplanting (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 1, 0, 11); the weaning of small animals and livestock (1, 2, 3, 22, 3, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30); harvest and store grains (1, 3, 4, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Perseverance provides more rewards than that lucky break we all are always hoping for."

"A mother is a mother still,
The holiest thing alive."
Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch:  Fair and mild (1, 2, 3, 4) with scattered showers (5.6); fair and war, (7, 8) with more showers and storms (9, 10, 11, 12) turning fair and warm (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18). More storms then heavy rain (19, 20, 21, 22) by fair and very warm weather (23, 24) with periods of storms (25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31).

Full Moon: May’s Full Moon occurs on Saturday, May 18th and many Native Americans have traditionally called it Flower Moon because of the many flowers that start to emerge and blossom during this month. However, the Huron tribes chose to call it Budding Moon. And because of the noticeable increase in milk produced by their cows as the weather starts to warm, farmers came to refer to it as Mile Moon.

Special Notes: Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on Sunday, May 5th. Rogation Sunday falls on May 26th, Ascension Thursday follows on May 30th and World No Tobacco Day is observed on Friday, May 31st.

Holidays: Mothers are honored on Mother’s Day, Sunday May 12th. Make her feel special with a telephone call, a sentimental card, a nice flower arrangement, or just by spending some quality time with her on her day. Armed Forces Day is observed on Sunday, May 19th and Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 27th. When planning your activities to mark the official start of the summer season, don’t forget that this day was set aside for honoring those who have served in our military and those who are currently serving. Their service and sacrifice have protected our precious freedoms and have ensured that our way of life will continue.

The Garden: Carrots, lettuce, potatoes, corn, beans, peas and most popular vegetables, with the exception of the warmer weather crops, can be seeded or planted into the vegetable garden at any time now. Wait until mid to late May before planting the warmer weather crops like Tomatoes, Squash, cucumber, pumpkins and peppers. With a little luck, you may begin to see the first fruit on your strawberries by late this month. Newly planted strawberries should have the blossoms picked off until they become well established. May is a good month to repair your lawn. Fill in the bare spots by slightly loosening surface of the soil and sow a good quality lawn seed over the area evenly. Tamp the seed in gently and water. Keep the patch moist by covering with light mulch of lawn clippings. This is the time to eliminate lawn weeds by hand pulling, or the application of a 'weed and feed' fertilizer.... before they go to seed!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (2, 3, 4, 12, 13, 14); weeding and stirring the soil (15, 16); planting above-ground crops (17, 18); harvesting all crops (22, 23, 26, 27, 28); best days for setting g hens and incubators (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); best days for slaughtering and butchering meat (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19); transplanting (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19) the weaning of small animals and livestock (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); harvest and store grains (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Meeting a person more than half-way will often repay you many times in the future"

"Spring being a tough act to follow, God created June." - Al Bernstein

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Showers, cooler (1, 2) turning fair and warm (3, 4, 5); more showers, mainly in the southern part of the region (6, 7) with fair and hot weather (8, 9, 10, 11). Scattered storms (12, 13), turning fair and hot again (14, 15, 16); severe storms (17, 18, 19) returning, yet again to fair and hot temperatures (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25) with more Storms in the north (26, 27, 28)’ fair and very warm (29, 30).

Tornado Watch: The Town and Country Almanack sees possible tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region from the 14th to the 18th of June.

Full Moon: June’s Full Moon will occur on Monday, June 17th. Because roses start to show their gorgeous blooms at the beginning of the month, it has been called ROSE MOON and also Strawberry Moon because the first strawberries of the season become ripe for the picking (and for the eating!).

Special Notes: Summer officially starts with the Summer Solstice that occurs on Friday, June 21st. Honor your favorite student this month when he or she graduates from high school or college. This is a major milestone so mark the achievement with a special event or memorable gift.

Holidays: Display ‘Old Glory’ on Flag Day, Friday, June 14th! To be sure that you are displaying it properly. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 16th. Do something really nice for the guy who a) paid for 4 years of college, b) paid for a really nice wedding, c) helped you finance that new (fill in the blank), or d) All of the above!

The Garden: Transplant when the rainy season starts but remember that working in the garden when plant leaves are wet can spread many diseases. If you have to divide plants, give them a chance to recover from having their roots disturbed by keeping them in the shade for at least a week. Tick-proof your yard this summer. Deer are likely to bring ticks into your space so plant species that deer do not eat like the thorny barberry, bugleweed, forsythia, foxglove, and most needle-leaved conifers. As the temperature starts to rise, lawns should be getting 1.5 inches of water a week. If Mother Nature is stingy, water deeply once or twice a week but NOT daily. Here’s a good tip: spray the underside of your mower with a thin coating of vegetable oil to prevent grass from sticking. And always remember that when working outside in hot sun for any prolonged period of time, be sure to take salt tablets, drink plenty of water, and take frequent breaks in the shade.

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (1, 28, 29); weeding and stirring the soil (2, 3, 4); planting above-ground crops (5, 6); harvesting all crops (15, 16, 17); the best days for setting hens and incubators (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9); transplanting (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24); harvesting and storing grains (1, 2, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30)

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"If all of our today’s held as much hope as our tomorrows, what wonderful memories we would have of all our yesterdays"

"Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves"
 - Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Storms, mainly in the southern part of the region (1, 2); hazy, hot, and humid (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) with remnants of hurricane from eastern Gulf, heavy rain (10, 11, 12). Hot and humid (13, 14, 15, 16, 17) with tropical rain (18, 19). Hazy, hot, and humid again (20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25), scattered showers (26, 27), and hazy, hot, and humid yet again (28, 29, 30, 31).

Tornado Watch: The Town and Country Almanack sees possible tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region from the 8th to the 10th of the month.

Full Moon: July’s Full Moon will occur on July 16th Thunder Moon was the name given to it by many Native Americans due to the high number of thunderstorms, some quite severe, that happened during this month in some areas. Buck Moon is another name given it due the appearance of antlers on young bucks in July and since hay tended to ripen at this time of year, and because of the appearance of young corn on the stalks, it was also given the names Hay Moon and Ripe Corn Moon.

Special Notes: The ‘Dog Days of Summer’ begin on Wednesday, July 3rd and will continue into mid-August.

Holidays: Independence Day falls on Thursday. If enjoying the holiday outdoors this year (and The Almanack is predicting perfect weather!), be sure to remember sunscreen. Apply it frequently to yourself and the kids, especially if swimming or engaging in strenuous activities like sports or hiking.

The Garden: Continue to keep the garden adequately watered (that is, if July’s forecasted wet weather is not enough!). Expect plants to do well with all of the rain predicted in July but as the summer continues, be sure to make up for what Mother Nature neglects to provide. Order bulbs now for fall planting, to get the best selection of varieties. Lots of spring-blooming bulbs are deer-resistant. Avoid tulips and crocus, and enjoy carefree alliums, winter aconite, snowdrops, snowflake, Siberian squill, glory-of-the-snow, Puschkinia, Fritillaria, and Anemone blanda. Grape hyacinths send up fall foliage, but even when it’s browsed, it doesn’t seem to affect their vigor

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (25, 26); weeding and stirring the soil (1, 4, 5); planting above-ground crops (2, 3, 10, 11, 12); harvesting all crops (13, 14, 17, 18, 19); the best days for setting hens and incubators (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 31); transplanting (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 31) the weaning of all small animals and livestock (13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21); harvesting and storing grains (1, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"If "The freedoms we enjoy today are the inheritance left us by our forbearers as a result of their sacrifices in achieving them."

"Summer has set in with its usual severity."
Samuel Taylor Coleridge (1772-1834)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Remnants of Gulf hurricane, heavy rain in the southern part of the region (1, 2, 3) with hot and humid weather (4, 5, 6); storms (7, 8) followed by the 3 H’s – hazy, hot, and humid (9, 10, 11, 12, 13); Atlantic hurricane, heavy rain, severe storms (14, 15, 16, 17) turning hot and humid again (18, 19, 20, 21, 22). Periods of storms, mainly in the south (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31).

Full Moon: August’s full moon will occur on August 15th. It has been referred to by many Native American tribes as Fruit Moon or Ripe Moon because of the many fruits and vegetables that ripen during the month. And since August 11th marks the end of the ‘Dog Days of Summer’, it has also been called Dog Moon.

Special Notes: The 224th edition of the J. Gruber’s Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack will be on newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region in September but you can place your order for the 2020 issue of The Almanack right now! Simply send an email to info@almanack.com now and order your copy for delivery after Labor Day. Check out www.almanack.com/order and consider taking advantage of the popular 3-year subscription, which offers guaranteed delivery of The Almanack for the next three years with no increase in price for only $23.50! Or you can register as a Friend of the Almanack (FOTA). As an FOTA member, you will receive a hard copy of the current edition, have immediate access to the digital version of The Almanack and also to year’s digital edition, too for only $15. All great deals for a great almanac!

Holidays: Labor Day will be here before you know it, signaling the end of summer so enjoy it while you can!

The Garden: August is the peak of the hot and dry season and your plants will need water more than anything during this time. If watering is limited or restricted in your area, concentrate on getting the most to newly planted trees and shrubs. If you use thick mulch and give it a good soak, water will be retained much better over much longer periods of time. To ensure a happy harvest, pick vegetables in the morning hours when the sugar content is highest. Never harvest or do any other garden work when plants are wet or you’re likely to spread disease.

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (21, 23); weeding and stirring the soil (2, 28, 29); planting above-ground crops (7, 8); harvesting all crops (14, 15); the best days for setting hens and incubators (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 30, 31); transplanting (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18); harvesting and storing grains (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"The wise man often says little while observing much; the fool observes little while talking a lot"

"September is the month of maturity; the heaped basket and the garnered sheaf.
It is the month of climax and completion. September! I never tire of turning it over and over in my mind. It has warmth, depth and colour. It glows like old amber." Patience Strong (1907-1990)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Scattered storms (1) with tropical rain (2, 3, 4); fair and hot (5, 6) with more scattered storms (7, 8). Fair and very warm (9, 10, 11, 12) with yet more storms (13, 14) turning fair and warm (15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21); periods of more storms (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28) turning fair and cooler (29, 30).

Full Moon: September’s Full Moon has been famously-known as the Harvest Moon. It is the Full Moon that falls closest to the Autumnal Equinox. During this time, the moon would rise soon after the sun would set on several successive days, giving the farmer a few extra hours of ‘light’ and more time to finish up their daily chores. This year, the Autumnal Equinox will occur on Monday, September 23nd and signals the beginning of Autumn. The Full Moon closest to that date will occur on Friday, September 13th and is therefore, the Harvest Mooof 2019.

Holidays: Labor Day falls on the first Monday of the month which is September 2nd in 2019. We must never forget to remember those who perished on September 11th, 2001 and to also honor all of the brave first-responders as well. These heroes ran into danger, sacrificed their lives trying to minimize the loss of life and the many who suffer today with long-term life-threatening health effects. And finally, they will now be properly supported with the passage of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund that commits funding through to 2090. Citizenship Day is observed on Tuesday, September 17th, Rosh Hashanah begins on Monday, September 30th.

The Garden: Fall is a great time to plant and divide perennials and shrubs for next year's garden. By planting in the fall, your plants do not endure the stressful summer heat during establishment and have time to form sufficient root systems before the onset of winter dormancy. Consider planting cabbages, peas, fennel, cauliflower, lettuce, Swiss chard, onions, leeks, Chinese peas, and endive crops for late autumn harvest. Also, try beets, turnips, spinach, radishes, collards and broccoli. Other fast-growing vegetables to consider are arugula and kale. For the best flavor, pick green beans when they are still thinner than a pencil. Pick lettuce when the outer leaves are four to six inches long. Pick tomatoes 5 to 8 days after color has fully developed. Pick zucchini when it is five to eight inches long.

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (17, 18, 19); weeding and stirring the soil (24, 25); planting above-ground crops (3, 4, 30); harvesting all crops (0, 11); the best days for setting hens and incubators (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 2, 3, 4, 28, 29, 30); transplanting (1, 2, 3, 4, 28, 30); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14); harvesting and storing grains (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"It is often true that the more one learns, the more one realizes how little one knows"

Although September 11th was horrible, it didn't threaten the survival
of the human race, like nuclear weapons do."
Stephen Hawking (1942-2018)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch:  Fair and warm (1, 2, 3) with showers (4, 5); fair and mild (6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12) with rain, heavy in the northern part of the region (13, 14, 15). Fair and mild again (16, 17, 18, 19); hurricane from Atlantic, heavy rain, severe storms (20, 21, 22) turning fair and cooler (23, 24, 25, 26, 27); more showers, storms mainly in the south 28, 29, 30); fair and cool (31).

Full Moon: October’s Full Moon with occur on Sunday, October 13th. The traditional name of October’s Full Moon is Hunter’s Moon because of the extra light it provided many Native Americans to extend their hunt for food into the early evening. It was also referred to as Moon Of Falling Leaves and Yellow Leaf Moon by the Cree Tribe because many of the trees lose the last of their leaves during the month and because of the many leaves turning that color during October.

Special Notes: Fire Prevention Week is October 6-12. Since 1922, the National Fire Protection Association has sponsored the public observance of Fire Prevention Week in commemoration of the Great Chicago Fire, which began on October 8, 1871 and is the longest-running public health observance in our country. Do your part by making sure all basic items such as flashlights, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and escape ladders are in place, functional, and ready to go if needed. And remember get your flu shots early this year!

Holidays: Yom Kippur begins at sunset on Tuesday, October 6th. Columbus Day is observed on Monday, October 14th, United Nations Day is celebrated on Thursday, the 24th, and Halloween falls on Thursday, October 31st.

The Garden: Shredding leaves, along with lawn clippings, dead plant stalks from the vegetable garden make a fine addition to the compost heap. And try this simply trick: remove all large vines and spent plants from the vegetable garden. Mix 1 can of cola (not diet), 1 cup of dish soap, and ¼ cup of ammonia and add to 20-gallon hose end sprayer and fill to top. Saturate the layer of mulch that’s left on top of the garden’s soil and then say, "Good Night" until the next growing season!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (26, 27); weeding and stirring the soil (22, 23); planting above-ground crops (1, 28, 29); harvesting all crops (7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14); the best days for setting hens and incubators (5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 2, 3, 4, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); transplanting (1, 2, 3, 4, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 30, 31); harvesting and storing grains (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"Before you insist on making yourself heard, make sure you have something of importance to say"

"Thanksgiving Day comes, by statute, once a year;
to the honest man it comes as frequently
as the heart of gratitude will allow."
Edward Sandford Martin (1856-1939)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair, colder (1, 2, 3) with lake-effect snow (4.5); fair and cold (6, 7, 8, 9) with snow in the northern part of the region, rain in the south 10, 11, 12, 13). Fair and rather cold (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20) with more snow in the north and rain in the south ( 21, 22, 23, 24, 25). Lake-effect snow (26, 27, 28, 29) with yet more snow (30).

Full Moon: November’s Full Moon will occur on Tuesday, November 12th. It has been called by many Native American tribes both Falling Leaf Moon and Dying Grass Moon because the colder days and heavy frosts during the month , trees have lost almost all of their leaves and most of the grasses have all died off. And because of the high winds sweeping through many regions this time of year, many other tribes have called it Big Wind Moon.

Special Notes: Remember to ‘fall back’ on Sunday, November 3rd at 2AM when Daylight Savings ends. Though not officially recognized as a holiday, Saturday, November 10th is the great civil rights leader, Martin Luther King’s actual birthday.

Holidays: Elections are traditionally held on the first Tuesday of November. This year, they will be held on Tuesday, November 5th. Monday, November 11th is Veteran’s Day when we remember our military service branches and those have served and who continue to protect us today. We must never, ever forget the sacrifice that millions of servicemen and women make every day, many in harm’s way right now. Celebrate Thanksgiving this year on Thursday, November 28th d with family and friends. There is so much for us all to be thankful for and we should carry that thankfulness beyond the holiday season.

The Garden: Keep all of your plants well-watered going into late fall and winter. Pay particular attention to any plants or shrubs recently planted. Plants that face winter dryness are prone to damage and dieback during the cooler months. Drain all of your hoses and put them away so they don't freeze and burst. Feed the birds in a fun, unique way by making a pinecone bird feeder. Just roll a large pinecone in peanut butter and birdseed. Hang the finished ‘ornament’ with rustic twine or ribbon in shrubs or on tree limbs close to windows for easy observation. Remember that once you start feeding them, don’t stop until natural food becomes available for them again next spring. Providing a source of fresh water is always desirable for our feathered friends, too!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (11, 12, 22, 23); weeding and stirring the soil (18, 19); planting above-ground crops (6, 7); harvesting all crops (, 8, 9, 10); the best days for setting hens and incubators (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 5, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 2, 3, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30); transplanting (1, 2, 3, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30); harvesting and storing grains (19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"You only reap what you sow, so be sure to spread more kindness and consideration for your fellow man than envy or ill will"

“Christmas is a season for kindling the fire for hospitality
in the hall, the genial flame of charity in the heart.”
- Washington Irving (1802-1882)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Fair and cool (1, 2, 3, 4) turning colder, lake-effect snow (5, 6, 7); fair and cold again (8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13) with some light snow (14, 15) turning fair and cold again (16, 17, 18, 19) with more light snow (20, 21). Fair and cold yet again (22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27), with still more light snow (28, 29); fair, very cold (30, 31).

Full Moon: December’s Full Moon occurs on Thursday, December 12th. Known as Cold Moon to many Native American tribes, it has also been called Beaver Moon because of their increased efforts to finish building their dams and lodges before winter sets in and Ice-Forming Moon because of the formation of ice on lakes and ponds at this time of year.

Special Notice: Thanks to all for their continued support over the many years and The Almanack is committed to continue publishing your favorite almanac and to continue to inform, inspire, and entertain for many more years to come. And don’t forget that The Almanack makes a great gift for anyone, friend or family and is a gift that keeps giving throughout the New Year. Simply point your browser to www.almanack.com/order and order a holiday copy today to ensure delivery before Christmas. The Winter Solstice will occur on Saturday, December 21st.

Holidays: Hanukah begins at sunset on Monday, December 23rd, Christmas is celebrated on Wednesday, December 25th, and Kwanzaa begins on Thursday, December 26th. Celebrate this joyous time with family and friends and promise to keep the spirit alive throughout the entire coming year! New Year’s Eve falls on Tuesday, December 31st.

The Garden: Utilize this time to do any major last-minute cleanup projects around the garden area. Haul away any debris that is to large or woody for the compost, build paths, turn the compost pile to keep it warm, and generally make the garden space tidy before it is under heavy use again in the spring. If you need holiday greenery, grab your shears and head for the back yard. If you are lucky, you will have a variety of boxwoods, yew, fir, or a variety of pine trees to choose from. If you are really lucky, you may even have a holly tree!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (19, 20, 21); weeding and stirring the soil (15, 16); planting above-ground crops (3, 4, 5); harvesting all crops (1, 2, 6, 7); the best days for setting hens and incubators (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 5, 16, 17, 18, 19); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 2, 3, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); transplanting (1, 2, 3, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); harvesting and storing grains (18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

“It’s not the size nor the cost of the gift that makes it meaningful, but the thought that goes into its selection”

"Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors,
and let every new year find you a better man."
Benjamin Franklin (1705—1790)

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Windy, very cold, lake-effect snow (1, 2, 3) with more snow (4, 5). Fair and very cold (6, 7, 8) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (9, 10, 11); fair and bitter cold (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) with more snow in the southern part of the region (18, 19); fair and very cold again (20, 21, 22); windy, lake-effect snow (23, 24, 25) turning fair, not as cold (26, 27, 28, 29, 30) with more lake-effect snow (31).

Full Moon: The first Full Moon of 2020 will occur on Friday, January 10th. Often referred to as Wolf Moon (because of the increased boldness of wolf packs venturing closure and closer to their camps looking for food), it has also been called Hunger Moon by many Native American tribes because of the scarcity of food at this time of year,

Special Notes: The 2020 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack is its 224th edition, continuously published since its first appearance in 1797! While it is the second oldest almanac in the United States, it is the ONLY almanac in America that is still published by heirs of its founder, John Gruber. He and his partner and son-in-law, Daniel May, would be proud to see their almanac continuing to provide detailed, and now more refined weather forecasts and accurate astronomical data proven to be vital to the agricultural success in the region. It is our commitment to continue improving our look, the accuracy of our weather forecasts, and offering useful information and inspiration to help one survive in today’s world. In that way.

Holidays: New Year’s Day in 2020 falls on Wednesday, January 1st. The birthday of famed civil rights activist leader, Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929) is celebrated on the third Monday of January. This year, it is Monday, January 20th. This great leader must be remembered on this day for the great social changes he brought about in this country and for the ultimate sacrifice he made pursuing unity and racial harmony which still eludes us today.

The Garden: Mulch landscape beds for winter if you haven't already (and if the weather allows). Mulching prevents erosion, protects against soil freezes and thaws, and helps retain moisture - all particularly beneficial over a dry winter. There are many different types of mulch. You can even recycle your cut Christmas tree and use the branches to cover perennials!

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (16, 17); weeding and stirring the soil (12, 13); planting above-ground crops (27, 28); harvesting all crops (2, 4, 20, 21); the best days for setting hens and incubators (3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (1, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31; transplanting (1, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28); harvesting and storing grains (17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

"The next twelve months offer a world of promise; it all depends on each of us and how much we are willing to give of ourselves to help make it a better world"

“The groundhog is like most prophets;
it makes its prediction and then disappears.”
- Bill Vaughn (1947- )

Mid-Atlantic Weather Watch: Cold, periods of light snow (1,2,3,4,5) with Nor’easter and heavy snow (6,7,8). Fair, rather cold (9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16) remaining fair, but not as cold (17,18). Snow, some rain in the southern part of the region (19,20,21) turning fair, cold 22,23,24,25,26) with Nor’easter, heavy snow (27,28,29).

Full Moon: February’s Full Moon will occur on , the 9st. It has been called Wolf Moon due to the howling heard during the month, the middle of their breeding season. In other parts of North America, where tribes saw the deepest snow, it was called Snow Moon and because there was such an extreme scarcity of game to hunt, it was also aptly referred to as Hunger Moon.

Special Notes: “Punxsutawney Phil” makes his much-anticipated appearance on Sunday, February 2nd to ‘predict’ the coming of Spring! How this little marmota monax reacts to the day’s weather will determine the arrival of Spring. If is sunny and he sees his shadow, he will retreat underground for another 6 weeks of Winter! If it is cloudy and he doesn’t get scared by his own shadow, Spring will come early in 2020.

Holidays: The Christian Festival of Lights, or Candlemas, is celebrated on Sunday, February 2nd. On this day, many churches would traditionally display many more candles than usual during their daily services to not only make the service special but it was also believed that the additional light would provide protection from illness and plague in the coming year. Valentine’s Day, February 14th, falls on Friday in 2020. Show that special someone just how much you appreciate their being a part of your life. The birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (Wednesday, February 12th) and George Washington (Saturday, the 22nd) are collectively celebrated on President’s Day which falls on Monday, February 17th to provide us with an extended holiday weekend. Enjoy!

The Garden: The vegetable garden should get its first good tilling of the year, if weather and wetness permits. This will help the weather aid you in breaking up the dirt clods. In the event of snow, be sure to shake or brush off the white stuff from the branches of your evergreens and shrubs. Plants that may have been pushed out of the ground by frost heave should be pressed firmly back into place. Deciduous shrubs and trees are still dormant enough to transplant this month. Once the buds have begun to swell, it will be too late. Continue feeding our feathered friends. You will want them to stick around so they will provide natural insect control when the weather warms again.

The Farm: Best for planting root crops (12, 13); Best for weeding and stirring the soil (3, 5); Best for planting above-ground crops (6, 7); Best for planting root crops (18, 19, 20); for harvesting all crops (16, 17). Best days to set hens and incubators (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16), slaughter and butcher meat (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28), transplant (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28), harvest and store grains (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31), wean animals (16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25).

J. Gruber’s Thought For Today’s Living

“If everyone were perfect, there would be no need for criticism, even of oneself”

"If you are enough lucky to be Irish, then you’re are lucky enough”

Old Irish Saying

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Snow, in the northern part of the region, rain in the south (1,2,3); fair and cold (4,5,6,7) with showers, some snow in the north (8.9). Fair and cold again (10,11,12,13,14) with snow in the north, rain in the south (15.16.17).  Fair, cold (18,19,20,23,22) snow in the north, rain in the south (23,24,25,26); fair and cold yet again (27.28.29.29, 30,31). 

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of March 

FULL MOON: March’s FULL MOON will occur on March 9th.  Native Americans came to call it WORM MOON because of the abundance of earthworms that would appear due to the warmer temperatures, softening up the frozen soil. It has also been referred to as SAP MOON because sap would begin to rise and run during this time of year.  

SPECIAL NOTES: Don’t forget to reset all of your clocks and watches when you ‘spring’ ahead an hour on Sunday, March 8th at 2:00 AM EST when Daylight Saving Time begins. The Vernal Equinox occurs on Thursday, March 19th and signals the arrival of Spring (at last!). Known for its high winds, March is the perfect time to "go fly a kite”!  Nothing is as exhilarating except maybe flying itself! Check out some of these classic designs you can make at home at wwww.my-best-kite.com/how-to-build-kites.html.

HOLIDAYS: Sunday, March 1st is the first Sunday in Lent. Be sure to wear green in honor of Ireland’s own,  St. Patrick, on Tuesday, March 17th. 

THE GARDEN: Don’t feed azaleas or rhododendrons until after they bloom.  Then, give them a fertilizer that is specially formulated for plants that prefer acid soil. House plants will react to longer days and brighter light at this time by putting out new growth.  The end of this month is a good time to pinch them back to generate new growth and to thicken them. And do try to plant your peas on St. Patrick’s Day! 

THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (10,11); weeding and stirring the soil (2,3,29,30); planting above-ground crops (4,5,31); planting root crops (21,22); harvesting all crops (14,15,16); setting hens and incubators (3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16); slaughtering/butchering meat (1,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); transplanting (1,24,15,26,27,28,29,30,31); harvesting and storing grain (16,17,18,19,2021,22,23); the weaning of all small animals and livestock  (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22,23). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING

"Never let a day go by that you don’t do more to your fellow man and for your community than you receive."

"There is no glory in star or blossom till looked upon by a loving eye;

There is no fragrance in April breezes till breathed with joy as they wander by”

William Cullen Bryant (1794-1878)

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Fair and cool (1,2,3) with showers, some snow in the northern part of the region (4,5,6,7,8); fair and cool again (9,10,11,12,13,14) with more showers (15,16.  Fair and mild (17,18,19,20,21,22,230 with showers, STORMS (24,25) turning fair and warmer (26,27,28,29,30)

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of April. 

FULL MOON: April’s FULL MOON will occur on Tuesday, Sunday, April 7th. It has been called PINK MOON because of the many pretty flowers coming into bloom throughout the month. And because fishing typically improved during the month due to the warmer weather, it has been also referred to as FISH MOON.

SPECIAL NOTES: In 2020, April Fool’s Day falls on Wednesday, April 1st. Keep an eye for practical jokes and pranks that may be coming your way from family, co-workers, and friends!  Taxes are due on Wednesday, April 15th.  If you are going to be late, file a request for an extension immediately using the form found at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf.  And if you cannot pay the full amount of taxes owed on the due date, request an installment plan to help spread the tax liability over several months. Go to http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f9465.pdf for an installment agreement request form and mail it in with your return.  Earth Day is observed on Wednesday, April 22nd. Call the Earth Day Network at (202)518-0044 or go to www.earthday.org for some interesting, fun, and easy activities that you and your family can do that will help promote a healthier relationship with Mother Earth! 

HOLIDAYS: Celebrate Palm Sunday on April 5th, Good Friday on the 10th, and Easter Sunday on April 12th. Honor the resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ by attending the church of your choice. The first day of Ramadan falls on Friday, April 24th.      

THE GARDEN: Begin planting indoor seedlings outdoors.  Harden them off first with several short days outside. Set out annuals and other perennials now. Cool season vegetables, such as spinach, lettuce, peas, broccoli, cauliflower, and beets can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked. A good test of "soil readiness” is to take a handful of soil and squeeze it. If it remains in a ball, it’s too moist and should be allowed to dry further. If it crumbles, start planting!

THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (7,8); weeding and stirring the soil (25,26,27); planting above-ground crops (1,2); planting root crops (7,8,9) 21,22); harvesting all crops (11,12); planting above the ground crops (28,29); to set hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15); slaughter and butcher meat (22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29); transplanting (22,23,242,5,26,27,28,29);); harvesting and storing of grain (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21); weaning of animals and livestock (11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19). 

JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING 

"Arise on a rainy day with as much eagerness as on a sunny day”

"The phrase ’working mother’ is redundant.”

Jane Sellman (1955-    )

MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Periods of showers, heavy rain in the southern part of the region (1,2,3,4,5,6); fair and cool (7,8,9) with more showers, STORMS (10,11).  Fair and warm (12,13,14,15) with heavy rains, STORMS in the south again (16,17). Fair and warm again (18,19,20,21) with periods of showers, STORMS (22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29)ending the month with fair and mild temperatures (30,31). 

TORNADO WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no tornado activity in the Mid-Atlantic Region during the month of May. 

FULL MOON: The FULL MOON in May occurs on Thursday, May 7th and has been called FLOWER MOON by many Native Americans because of the many flowers that start to emerge and blossom during this month.  The , however, Huron tribes chose to call it BUDDING MOON for the same reasons. Farmers came to refer to it as MILK MOON because of the noticeable increase in milk produced by dairy cows as the weather starts to warm up. 

SPECIAL NOTES: Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on Tuesday, May 5th. Rogation Sunday falls on May 17th, Ascension Thursday follows on May 21st, and World No Tobacco Day is observed on Sunday, 1 May 31st. When looking for a notable historical event that happened to occur during the month of May, it was noticed that the soap operas, Another World and As The World Turns, both aired for the first time on May 4, 1964. Charles W. Fisher, editor of The Almanack from 1973 to 2000, produced both of those shows during over his 28-year career television broadcasting!

HOLIDAYS: Mothers are honored on Mother’s Day, Sunday May 10th. Let Mom know that she’s special with a telephone call, a sentimental card, a nice flower arrangement, or just by spending some quality time with her on her day. Celebrate Armed Forces Day on Tuesday, May 19th and Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 25th.  Those day has been set aside for honoring those who have served in our military and those who are currently serving. Their service and sacrifice have protected our precious freedoms and have ensured that our way of life will continue.  We can extend that recognition to include doctors, all healthcare workers, and everyone deemed essential in this troubled time. 

THE GARDEN: Once your last frost data has passed, warm season crops can be planted. When the ground temperatures reach 70 degrees Fahrenheit, it is safe to begin planting Okra, Pumpkin, Sweet Potatoes, Eggplant, Peppers, Peanuts, Watermelon, Cow Peas, Black-eyed Peas, Crowder Peas, Butter Peas and Butter Beans. Trim up hedges and shrubs to shape and tighten them with new growth. Most flowering shrubs will respond to a light trimming at this time of year. Don’t trim away too many of the emerging buds or you won’t have as many flowers. 

THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (20,21,22); weeding and stirring the soil (23,24, 27,28);  planting above-ground crops (25,26); harvesting all crops (8,9); best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,30,32); slaughtering and butchering meat (22,23,24,25,26,27,28); transplanting (22,23,24,25,26,27,28); the weaning of small animals and livestock (8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17); harvest and store grains (8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17). 

J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING:

"Perseverance often provides more rewards than that lucky break we’re always hoping for”.