Feb 22-23

An unexpected 260 gallons of sap were collected in the woods today! Bob sent a text out rather late for some help which thankfully arrived in shifts. Bob did the first half of the south path alone, then was joined by Chris. Dale & Karen picked up Brad and met Gerri in time to do some of the north and northeast areas. Luckily relief arrived with the Oney family & Ted & Susan B (we think we saw her , but it was dark-not truly certain). They had most of the East path gathered to the path by the time the tractor arrived.  

We finished just as the sun was about down and the moon (which is close to full tonight) took over. All was well, until Bob drove through the rather deep mud track at the northwest corner of the camp. The angle of the tractor and trailer was impressive, Ted summarized it well by understating the problem "ooh, that doesn't look good". This involved a trip to the house for the David Brown tractor and a quick pull which worked on the first try. Bob remained very calm, Brad noticed how much quieter dad is when he is the one who buries the tractor! Once again Jenny arrived with a flashlight in tow that did come in handy unfortunately to hook up chains etc.

Thanks to all the help and the many who were with us in cell phone spirit only. Our Boilermaker is "down for repairs". Hope he can get his 3000 mile oil and lube before the weather breaks. We miss him. 

Total Sap: 260 gallons

Total Syrup: can wait for another day