Season Beginnings

The 2026 maple syrup season officially began in January — not because we tapped trees, but because the annual text messages started rolling in.

Every year, without fail:

“Have you tapped yet?”
“The 14-day forecast looks like syrup season is here!”

At this point, the texts feel almost obligatory. And Bob getting riled up about them? Inevitable.

We kicked off prep work around 6 p.m. on Sunday, February 15th, washing lids. Bob and Kelsey — with the help of a very dirty (and very wet) 10-month-old — finished up on Monday. By Wednesday, tubing was wrapped, and everything was packed and ready to go.

During a visit with the Kansas Rine’s, Bob and Gerri celebrated Oliver’s second birthday and also talked some shop during their travels. Somehow they got onto the topic of ordering new buckets. We’re still not sure how the subject came up, but after 11 years, Bob decided it was finally time. Historically, Bob’s bucket color choices have not been well-received. Red and yellow may seem harmless on their own, but once put together, they scream McDonald’s. After enduring endless complaints over the years, Bob wisely chose not to be involved in the color decision this time.

Bob sent out several texts, the debate lasted longer than some presidential elections, and finally, the votes were slightly in favor of neon pink buckets. So naturally, Bob called and placed the order for 500 orange buckets. About an hour before he made the call, the orange buckets sold out, so… yellow it is. We’re not entirely sure anyone actually voted for that.

The buckets were set to be delivered on Wednesday, Feb. 18th, so now we just needed to wait for the delivery.

If you are interested in helping us rehome the “old” sap buckets, give Kelsey or Bob a call; you can have as many as you want (for free!).