December 2023
“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: Dry and milder at first, then turning breezy and colder with rain east and snow west (1,2,3,4,5); seasonably cold and dry, then breezy with light snow (6,7,8,9,10); dry, turning milder, then rain, possibly mixed with wet snow west (11,12,13,14,15); dry and mild at first, then showers, turning breezy and cooler (16,17,18,19,20); 21-26 seasonably mild with periods of rain (21,22,23,24,25,26); dry, turning cooler but more seasonable; flurries possible west (27,28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WEATER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees no severe weather in December’s forecast.
FULL MOON: December‘s full moon falls on the 26th. It has been appropriately called COLD MOON by many Native American tribe (because of the lower temperatures during the month!). Many other tribes noticed beavers scurrying to finish their dams and lodges before the lakes and ponds begin to ice over, so they called it ICE-FORMING MOON and BEAVER MOON.
SPECIAL NOTES: The Winter Solstice of 2023 will occur on Thursday, December 21st. Remember that The Almanack makes a great gift, one that keeps giving throughout the entire year! Go to www.almanack.com/order, order a holiday copy or two (or three or four!), and check out the new digital version available on-line at a price that will surely entice! And don’t forget to include a nifty THE ALMANACK KNOWS WHICH WAY THE WIND BLOWS! sweatshirt or tee under the tree. Go to www.bonfire.com/the-almanack-knows, check out the styles and colors, and order one today.
HOLIDAYS: Advent Sunday falls on the 3rd in 2023. Hanukkah begins at sunset on Thursday, December 7th, celebrate Christmas on Monday, December 25th, and Kwanzaa, on Tuesday, December 26th. Celebrate and share the holiday spirit with family and friends and try to keep that joyful and giving spirit alive throughout the coming year! Everyone here at The Hagerstown Town & Country Almanack wishes everyone the happiest of holidays and again, pledges to its loyal readers (and followers on social media!) to continue to inform, inspire, and entertain as it has done for the past 228 years! New Year’s Eve falls on Sunday, December 31st. For a safe, family-oriented evening of fun, food, and entertainment on the very first night of the year, go to www.firstnight.com/cities to find a First Night Celebration nearest you.
THE GARDEN: 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! A live Christmas tree is still a tradition in some homes. Check its 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.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (7,8); weeding and stirring the soil (2,3); planting above-ground crops (1, 18,19); harvesting all crops (20,21); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (12,13,14,15,16,17,18); transplanting (112,13,14,15,16,17,18); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19); 1,21,22,23,24,25,26),27,28); harvesting and storing grains (5,6,7,8,9,10,11).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“The thought that goes into the giving of a gift to a friend or loved one, is so much more important than the value of the gift itself”
November 2023
“November sky is chill and drear, November’s leaf is red and sear”………..Sir Walter Scott (1771-1832)
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry and warm, then a few showers (1,2,3,4,5); rain, then turning breezy and colder on the 10th (6,7,8,910); seasonably cold and dry with a hard freeze east, then snow showers west and rain showers east (11,12,13,14,15); dry and turning milder, then wind-driven rain and turning colder with snow showers west (16,17,18,19,20); 21-26 seasonably chilly and dry at first, then showers (21,22,23,24,25,26); windy with rain, changing to snow west (27,28,29,30).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack forecasts a hard freeze (11,12,13); heavy snow, lake effect-winds (18); more heavy snow, wind (27).
FULL MOON: The FULL MOON in November will occur on Saturday, November 27th. Because of the high winds that wold sweeping across The Plains, many Native American tribes called it BIG WIND MOON and with all of the leaves falling and grasses dying off, it was also been referred to as FALLING LEAF MOON and DYING GRASS MOON. And.
SPECIAL NOTES: The 2023 elections will be held on Tuesday, November 7nd. Though this year we are not electing the President of The United States, your vote is still needed to help maintain the course of America for the future. If voting by mail, be sure to complete your ballot immediately upon receipt and place the properly-completed ballot into a legitimate drop box in your area or mail as early as possible. And remember…. Daylight Savings will end on Sunday, November 5th at 2AM. Be sure to turn the clocks back an hour before retiring Saturday evening. And make note that this will most likely be the very last time we will have to make this biannual time change! The United States Senate has passed the Sunshine Protection Act of 2021, which would abolish clock changes in favor of making daylight saving time permanent. Once it reviewed by the House of representatives passes the Senate and is signed into law by the president, the change will take place in 2024.
HOLIDAYS: In 2023, Veteran’s Day falls on Saturday, November 11th. Remember to honor our military service branches and those who have served and with their om-going service, continue to protect us today. Thanksgiving is celebrated on Thursday, November 23rd. Join with family and friends and reflect on all of the things we have to be thankful for and please, try and carry that appreciation not only throughout the holiday season, but for always! And though not officially recognized as a holiday, Wednesday, November 10th is the great civil rights leader, Martin Luther King’s actual birthday.
THE GARDEN: Keep watering until the ground temperature reaches 40 degrees F. 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. The trick is to water deeply and less often in order to establish self-sufficient plants. Use small stakes or markers where you’ve planted bulbs or late starting spring plants in the perennial garden, to avoid disturbing them when you begin spring soil preparation. If you feel that stakes don’t fit your landscape style, you might consider marking stones with fingernail polish or paint, and set them on the planting spot (painted side down). Drain your hoses and put them away so they don’t freeze and burst. 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.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (9,10,11); planting above-ground crops (21,22); weeding and stirring the soil (4,5,6); harvesting all crops (23,24); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,20,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (13,14,15,16.17,18,19); transplanting (13,14,15,16,17,18,19); the weaning of small animals and livestock (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,22); the harvesting and storing grains ( 5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12).
JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING “If youth knew what Age would crave, it would strive to get and save.”
October 2023
“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: Dry, turning very warm (1,2,3,4,5); very warm and dry at first, then period of rain, followed by cooler temperatures(6,7,8,9,10); dry, then showers followed by seasonably cold temperatures and return to dry weather (11,12,13,14,15); dry and warm, then showers followed by seasonably cold temperatures (16,17,18,19,20); occasional showers and mild (21,22,23,24,25); dry, warm days and cool nights (26,27,28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees heavy rains hitting the region (7,8,9,10,22,23,24,25). Stay dry!
FULL MOON: October’s FULL MOON will occur on October 28th and is the HUNTER’S MOON of 2023. Named because of the extra light the moon provided to many Native American tribes, giving them more time to hunt for. The Cree Tribe referred to as and YELLOW LEAF and FALLING LEAVES because of the many leaves turning bright yellow (an many others, as well!)and because most trees have lose the last of their leaves during the month.
HOLIDAYS: Columbus Day is observed on Monday, October 9th, United Nations Day is celebrated on Tuesday, the 24th, and Halloween (Booo!) falls on Sunday, October 31st.
SPECIAL NOTES: October is Fire Prevention Month. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) named the second week of October Fire Prevention Week in 1922 in commemoration to the Great Chicago Fire in 1871. Today, we celebrate Fire Prevention Week and Month by educating families, students and communities across the United States raising fire safety awareness. During this month, local and regional fire departments provide education to their communities and encourage parents and loved ones to practice fire safety. Remember to have an evacuation plan ready for your family to follow, check smoke detector batteries often, and always, always respect the power of fire.
THE GARDEN: Mulching fall planted perennials will keep the soil warmer longer, allowing root growth to continue, however, the plants do need time to harden off for winter. Spread a thin layer of mulch after fall planting, and then add a thicker layer once the ground has frozen. 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 (1,2,13 14); weeding and stirring the soil (8,9,10); planting above-ground crops (15,6,17); harvesting all crops (18,19,26,27); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,22,2e,24,25,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (14,15,16,17,18,19,20); transplanting (14,15,16,17,18,19,20); weening of all small animals and livestock(1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,27,28,29,30,31); harvesting and storing grains (6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13).
JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
When a boy passes through a graveyard, does he whistle to keep his own spirits up or to keep the spirits of other people down?
September 2023
“Labor Day is a glorious holiday because your child will be going back to school the next day. It would have been called Independence Day, but that name was already taken”…..Bill Dodds (1952- )
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Seasonably warm and humid with isolated late afternoon showers and THUNDERSTORMS west (1,2,3); seasonably warm with PM THUNDERSTORMS central and east (4,5,6); dry and quite warm with late afternoon showers, then turning less humid (7,8,9); mainly dry and comfortable (11,12,13,14,15); warm and humid with late afternoon isolated showers at first, then dry and cooler (16,17,18,19,20); few afternoon showers at first, then turning unseasonably cool (21,22,23,24,25); pleasant at first, then warm and humid with afternoon showers and THUNDERSTORMS followed by cooler, less humid conditions (26,27,28,29,30).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS, heavy rain (4) with more SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS (28,29). 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 23rd and signals the beginning of Autumn. The Full Moon closest to that date will occur on Friday, September 29th and is therefore, the HARVEST MOON of 2023.
SPECIAL NOTES: We must never forget that on September 11th, 2001, America was attacked like never before and that it has never been the same since. Today, we honor those who perished then on that day and we must never forget the brave first-responders, many who also perished, trying to minimize the loss of life . The 2023 Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack has been available on newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region now since mid-August, again, almost a month earlier than any other year! For a complete listing of retail locations, go to www.almanack.com/where-to-buy-us but save some time and go to www.almanack.com/order, order your copy today, and have it delivered right to your front door! And consider taking advantage of our very popular 3-year subscription. Or become a Friend of The Almanack (FOTA), get immediate access to our new on-line digital version as well as THE NEXT EDITION, receive a single printed copy of the current edition, access to past digital editions, and so much more! Check it out at www.almanack.com/specials). All great deals for a great almanac!
HOLIDAYS: Labor Day falls on the first Monday of the month which falls on September 4th in 2023.Citizenship Day is observed on Sunday, September 17th and Rosh Hashana begins on Friday, September 15th at sunset.
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.
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.
THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (4,5); weeding and stirring the soil (11,12); planting above-ground crops (18,19,20); harvesting all crops (29,30); best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,23,24,25,26,27,28,29,30); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21); transplanting (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1,21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28); the harvesting and storing of grains (6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“No one is more tired than one who does nothing”
August 2023
“What dreadful hot weather we have! It keeps me in a continual state of inelegance”…..Jane Austen (1775-1817)
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Seasonably warm (1,2) with isolated PM THUNDERSTORMS, hot and humid (3,4,5,6);dry, warm and humid (7,8,9,10) with PM showers and more THUNDETRSTORMS with heavy rain, then dry and turning much cooler and less humid (11,12,13,14,15) becoming hot and humid, with scattered PM showers and STORMS (16,17,18); dry, cooler and less humid cool, less humid and dry at first, then muggy with isolated PM THUNDERSTORMS west (19,20,21,22,23,24,25); seasonably warm with isolated PM showers west; windy along the coast from possible offshore HURRICANE (26,27,28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees heavy rains (11,12,13,14 and periods of high winds from off-shore hurricane (28,29,30).
FULL MOON: August’s full moon will occur on August 1st. Many Native American tribes called it RIPE MOON or FRUIT MOON due to the many fruits and vegetables that ripen during the month.
SPECIAL NOTES: The Gruber Almanack, LLC proudly announces the availability of its 228th edition of J. Gruber’s Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack! The Almanack will be available for purchase at newsstands and at popular retailers throughout the Mid-Atlantic Region in Mid-August, nearly a month earlier then past year! For a full listing of retailers and their locations, go to www.almanack.com/where-to-buy. But why wait? Order The Almanack today at www.almanack.com/order and have it delivered right to your front door! And consider taking advantage of our popular 3-year subscription, which offers guaranteed delivery of The Almanack for the next three years with no increase in price for only $24.50! Or you can sign up as a Friend of The Almanack(FOTA) and receive a printed copy of the current edition, get immediate access to the digital version of The Almanack (and access to next year’s digital edition, too!), access to past digital editions, the monthly newsletter, all for the low price of only $15. All great deals for a great almanac!
HOLIDAYS The end of summer is near and Labor Day is a just few weeks. Many are starting school, some for the very first time, and may need special attention. Begin planning now and make a list of the things that need to be done and when they need to be completed. Schedule immunizations and/or physicals, purchase new clothes, and assess school supplies that will be needed with ample lead time to ensure a successful ‘first day’ for your young students.
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 the weather is cool, Fescue can be sown to repair lawns in the last week of August.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (17,18,19); weeding and stirring the soil (7,8,9); planting above-ground crops (4,5,6); harvesting all crops (7,8,11,12); the best days for setting hens and incubators (5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17); 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 (7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14); harvesting and storing grains (18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“Congratulating oneself is not evidence of success”
July 2023
“Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves” Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865)
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: warm, humid and dry at first, then scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms (1,2,3,4,5); very warm and humid with scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms producing heavy rain at first, then dry; turning slightly cooler and less humid (6,7,8,9,10); turning very hot and humid with late PM storms (11,12,13,14,15); record-breaking heat possible at first with PM showers and thunderstorms, then dry and turning slightly cooler and less humid (16,17,18,19,20); dry, seasonably warm and humid (21,22,23,24,25); dry, warm and humid at first, then PM showers and thunderstorms with heavy rain and turning slightly cooler (26,27,28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees heavy rain (6,7,8), severe thunderstorms (27), and more heavy rain (28,29,30).
FULL MOON: July’s Full Moon will occur on Monday, July 3rd. Many Native American tribes referred to it as THUNDER MOON because of the numerous severe thunderstorms during the month (see this month’s forecast above!). Other tribes in various regions of the United States called it BUCK MOON due to the rapid growth of antlers on young bucks during the month, RIPE CORN MOON because of the appearance of young corn on the stalks planted in the Spring, or HAY MOON since hay tended to ripen as well.
SPECIAL NOTES: Watch out! Those Dog Days of Summer will be upon us starting Monday, July 3rd. Get ready for some hot and humid weather that will continue into mid-August.
HOLIDAYS: This year’s Fourth of July celebration falls on Tuesday, July 4th! On this day, in 1776, the Continental Congress passed a resolution saying, “these United Colonies are, and of right, ought to be, free and independent states”. If a barbeque is planned, double-check the grill. Nobody wants any surprises, so it is wise to make sure that it is functioning properly and that you remember to fill up the propane tank (or picked up plenty of charcoal and charcoal lighter fluid!). And always remember, if planning any extended outdoor activities, use the appropriate level of sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Apply it frequently, especially if swimming or perspiring. The Islamic New Year falls on Tuesday, July 18th.
THE GARDEN: This is the last month to plant these veggies for a fall crop: snap beans, peas, cukes, carrots, kohlrabi, summer squash, early sweet corn and green onions, among others. To get the best selection of varieties, order bulbs now for fall planting. Lots of spring-blooming bulbs are deer-resistant, too. 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 will 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 (3,4,11,12); weeding and stirring the soil (18,19,20); planting above-ground crops (26,27); harvesting all crops (10,11,14,15); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,26,27,28,29,30,31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat(17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24);transplanting (17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,28,29,30,31). harvesting and storing grains (9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16).
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.”
June 2023
“By the time a man realizes that maybe his father was
right, he usually has a son who thinks he’s wrong”!
Charles Wadsworth (1929- )
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry and comfortable (1,2,3,4,5); 6-10 turning very warm and humid, then scattered PM thunderstorms (6,7,8,9,10); 11-15 fair, cooler at first, then becoming hot and humid with isolated PM showers (11,12,13,14,15); warm and humid, then turning stormy with PM showers and thunderstorms (16,17,18,19,20); dry and warm (21); late-day thunderstorms, best chance east; still warm and humid (22,23,24,25); 26-30 dry at first, then isolated PM showers and thunderstorms west; hot and humid (26,27,28,29,30).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees excessive heat (14,15), severe thunderstorms (22, with more excessive heat (29,30).
FULL MOON: The FULL MOON in June will occur on Saturday, June 3rd. It has often been referred to as STRAWBERRY MOON because the first strawberries of the season become ripe for the picking in June! It has also been known as ROSE MOON because roses start to show their gorgeous blooms at the beginning of the month.
SPECIAL NOTES: The Summer Solstice that will occur on Wednesday, June 21st, signaling the officially start of summer (it’s finally here!). It’s also graduation time so honor your high school or college grad. This major milestone should be recognized as such with a party or a very special gift. Consider marking the special year (or any special event) with a copy of this year’s Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack. Go to www.almanack.com/order and order one right now!
HOLIDAYS: Proudly display ‘Old Glory’ on Wednesday, June 14th! Be sure to display it properly and reference www.ushistory.org/betsy/more/displayonly.htm to be sure. Father’s Day is Sunday, June 19th. Do something really nice for the guy who a) taught you how to ride a two-wheeler b) videotaped every sporting event or recital you ever were in, c) helped you finance that new (fill in the blank), or d) all of the above!
THE GARDEN: Cut back perennials like Shasta daisy, black-eyed Susan, cone flower, and lavender after first bloom to encourage a second round of flowers in the Fall. Cut back fuchsia, geranium, and margarite to encourage branching. 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. Transplant when the rainy season starts but remember that working in the garden when plant leaves are wet can spread many diseases.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (14,15); weeding and stirring the soil (16,17); planting above-ground crops (1,2,18,19,20); harvesting all crops (3,4); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,26,27,28,29,30); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25); transplanting (17,18,19,20,21,22,23,24,25); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11); the harvesting and storing grains (10,11,12,13,14,15,16).
GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“Send your son into the world with good principles, a good temper, a good business education, and habits of industry, then he will work his way.”
May 2023
“The heart of a mother is a deep abyss at the bottom of which you will always find forgiveness.”
Honoré de Balzac (1799—1850)
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry and mild, then heavy rain (1,2,3,4,5); dry, then turning warm and slightly humid with isolated PM showers(6,7,8,9,10); dry again, near record warmth developing (11,12,13,14); frequent PM showers and thunderstorms followed by cooler and more seasonable conditions(15,16,17,18,19,20); frequent PM showers and mild (21,22,23,24,25); seasonable with occasional showers (26,27,28,29,30,31).
EXTREME WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees heavy rains in the Mid-Atlantic Region (3,4,5,19,20)
FULL MOON: May’s FULL MOON will occur on Friday, May 5th. Many flowers emerge and blossom during this month so many Native American tribes called it FLOWER MOON, while the Huron tribes specifically chose to call it BUDDING MOON for the very same reasons! The colonial farmer called it MILK MOON because of the noticeable increase in milk produced by his dairy cows in the month of May.
SPECIAL NOTES: The National Day of Prayer, Thursday, May 4th was established in 1952 at the direct suggestion of Reverend Billy Graham (1918–2018). It was signed into law under Ronald Reagan in 1988. Rogation Sunday falls on May 14th, Ascension Thursday, on May 18th, and Pentecost on May 28th.
HOLIDAYS: Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on Sunday, May 5th. Mothers are honored on Mother’s Day, Sunday May 14th. Treat that ‘very special lady” to a nice dinner out, a sentimental card and/or nice flower arrangement, or just a telephone call to say, “I love you”! Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 29th in 2023, On this day, we honor those who have died in defense of our freedoms, who suffer from injuries suffered in combat, and to all those who are currently serving today. Their unflinching service and sacrifice protect our way of life every single day
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. With a little luck, you may begin to see the first fruit on your strawberries by late this month. The birds will enjoy them very much if you don’t provide some protective netting over them! Newly-planted strawberries should have the blossoms picked off until they become well-established.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (18,19); weeding and stirring the soil (20,21,25,26); planting above-ground crops (22,23,24); harvesting all crops (7,8); best days for setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,27,28,29,30,31);slaughtering and butchering meat (19,20,21,23,24,25,26); harvest and store grains (12,13,14,5,15,16,17,18; transplanting (19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26); weaning of small animals and livestock (7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING:
“While the truth may be painful to hear today, the wise man will benefit from it tomorrow”
April 2023
“God bless my bit of garden
And make its flowers grow
That it may give some pleasure
To all the folks I know”
John Gruber (1768–1857)
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Rain, then turning breezy and colder (1,2,3,4,5); hard freeze, then milder with rain showers (6,7,8,9,10); dry and warmer, then turning breezy with rain (11,12,13,14,15); dry and chilly with a hard freeze (16,17,18,19,20); dry, turning milder with scattered showers (21,22,23,24,25); dry and warm (26,27,28,29); showers and thunderstorms (30).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack forecasts hard freezes (6,7,8,16,17)with below average precipitation in the western part of the Mid-Atlantic Region and above average in the Eastern part.
FULL MOON: Because of the many pretty flowers blooming during the month, April’s FULL MOON has been called PINK MOON, and will occur on Wednesday, April 5th. It has also been called FISH MOON, because fishing typically improved due the warming weather.
SECIAL NOTES: April Fool’s Day falls on Saturday, April 1st in 2023. Watch out for practical jokes and pranks that may be coming your way from family, co-workers, and friends! Tax Day is Saturday, April 15th. If you need more time to file, request an extension immediately using the form found at www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4868.pdf. Earth Day is observed on Saturday, April 22nd. The Earth Day Network, at (202)518-0044, and at www.earthday.net offers some interesting, fun, and easy activities that you and your family can do that will help promote a healthier relationship with our fragile Mother Earth! Arbor Day falls on Sunday, April 30th. Go to www.arborday.org/ for more on The Arbor Day Foundation’s mission, which focuses on helping others understand and use trees as a solution to the many global issues we face today that include air quality, water quality, a rapidly changing climate, deforestation, poverty, and hunger.
HOLIDAYS: Easter Sunday falls on Sunday, April 9th in 2023. Celebrate the resurrection of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, by attending the church of your choice and spending time with the family.
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. If you have one, test your underground sprinkling system by monitoring a full cycle just to make sure it is still operating correctly. Inspect all sprinkler heads for cleaning, adjustment, or replacement.
THE FARM Best days for planting root crops (5,6); weeding and stirring the soil (22,23,24); planting above-ground crops (25,26); harvesting all crops (10,11); to set hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,28,29,30); the slaughtering and butchering of meats (19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26); transplanting (19,20,21,22,23,24,25,26); harvesting and storing of grain (13,14,15,16,17,18); weaning of animals and livestock (10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17).
JOHN GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
Gardens are for all ages: the young for hope of the future, the elderly, for fond memories of the past, and for those in between, the rewards of a good life, now.
March 2023
“If you were lucky to be born Irish, you are lucky enough”
Old Irish Blessing
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry, then snow and ice north, rain east, followed by blustery conditions (1,2,3,4,5); dry, then a wintry mix followed by much milder conditions (6,7,8,9,10); sprinkles followed by gusty winds and turning much colder (11,12,13,14,15); warm, then rain, snow west, followed by breezy conditions (16,17,18,19,20); rain, then breezy, mild (21,22,23,24,25); 26-31 dry, then rain, staying mild (26,27,28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: The Hagerstown Town and Country Almanack sees a wintery mix (3,4,5); high winds (12,13 14); heavy snow (19,20); heavy rain (28,29,30)
FULL MOON: March’s FULL MOON for will occur on the 7th. It has been called WORM MOON by many Native Americans because of the abundance of earthworms that begin when the earth starts to soften due to the warming temperatures. It has also been called SAP MOON because sap would begin to rise and run during this time of year.
SPECIAL NOTES: Daylight Saving Time (DST) begins on Sunday, March 13th in 2023. Don’t forget to ‘spring’ ahead an hour at 2AM EST. DST will end on November 5th, at 2AM EST, unless the Sunshine Protection Act is signed into law. Passed by the Senate in March, 2022, the act is awaiting the President’s signature after a final review by the House. The Vernal Equinox will occur Monday, March 20th which is considered the first day of Spring! The Almanack suggests that you “Go fly a kite” during this very windy month. Check out some of these classic designs you can make at home at wwww.my-best-kite.com/how-to-build-kites.html.
HOLIDAYS: In honor of St. Patrick on Friday, March 17th, be sure to wear something green and festive!
THE GARDEN: March is prime time for feeding shrubs and perennials that bloom in the Summer months. Get the rake out and start clearing away old grass and debris from the lawn (that is, if the temperatures have warmed up and the snow has all gone!). Apply a pre-emergent fertilizer to the lawn during the month for healthier grass and there will fewer weeds to contend with later on in the Summer. 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. And don’t forget to throw old coffee grounds around the base of these blooming beauties! As soon as your compost pile thaws, begin to turn it with a fork as best you can. Start slow-growing and cool season seeds such as onions, leeks, parsley, celery, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, eggplant and peppers. Remember to plant peas around St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th). Transplant and fertilize sprouting seedlings after a light rain when the ground is much easier to till. For plants that need protection from heat and wind, plan your planting on a cloudy day or late in the afternoon.
THE FARM: Best days for planting root crops (9,10); weeding and stirring the soil (26,27,31); planting above-ground crops (1,2,3,28,29,30); harvesting all crops (13,14,15); setting hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,29,30,31); slaughtering/butchering meat (21,22,23,24,25,26,27); transplanting (21,22,23,23,25,26,27); harvesting and storing grain (14,15,16,17,18,19,20);the weaning of small animals and livestock (13,14,5,16,17,18,19,20,21).
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”
February 2023
“February is the border between winter and spring.” Terri Guillemets (1973- )
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Dry and mild, then snow north and west, rain south and east followed by breezy conditions (1,2,3,4,5); dry, then occasional light showers followed by brisk and cooler conditions (6,7,8,9,10); seasonal, then snow, wintry mix central and east followed by brisk and dry conditions (11,12,13,14,15,16); cold, then moderating (17,18,19,20); wintry mix, rain south and east at first, followed by dry weather (21,22,23,24,25,26,27,28).
SEVERE WEATHER WATCH: Heavy Snow, Wintry Mix (2,3,4,5); wintry mix, high winds (11,12,13,14); heavy snow (15,16);more wintry mix (21,22,23).
FULL MOON: in 2023, February’s FULL MOON will occur on February 5th. Where tribes saw the deepest snow, it was called SNOW MOON, while other tribes called it WOLF MOON because of all of the howling heard during the month, which happens to be the middle of their breeding season! And because there is such an extreme scarcity of game to hunt everywhere during this month, it was also aptly referred to as HUNGER MOON.
SPECIAL NOTES: “Punxsutawney Phil” makes his annual and much-anticipated appearance on Thursday, February 2nd when he issues his ‘prediction’ of the coming of Spring! If it is a sunny day and this little marmota monax sees his shadow, he will retreat post haste underground, to remain there 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 2023. Also, The Christian Festival of Lights, or Candlemas, will be celebrated on the 2nd as well. As part of a long tradition, many churches would display many more candles on this day during their daily services. Not only did it make the service a special one , but it was also believed that the additional light would provide protection from illness and plague in the coming year. Shrove Tuesday (or Fat Tuesday, the start of Mardi Gras) is February 21st and Ash Wednesday is February 22nd, marking the beginning of Lent.
HOLIDAYS: Valentine’s Day, February 14th, falls on Tuesday in 2023. Show that special someone just how special they are and how much you appreciate them. The birthdays of Presidents Abraham Lincoln (Saturday, February 12th) and George Washington (Tuesday, the 22nd) are collectively celebrated on President’s Day, which falls on Monday, February 20st, providing us with an extended holiday weekend. Enjoy!
THE GARDEN: With some good news from our favorite groundhog, we can start thinking about things to do in an early. It’s time to turn the compost pile (if it’s not too frozen!). 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. The vegetable garden should get its first good tilling of the year, if weather and wetness permits.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (9,10,11, 16,17); Best for weeding and stirring the soil (1,27,28); Best for planting above-ground crops (2,3); Best for harvesting all crops (14,15);Best days to set hens and incubators (1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,27,28); slaughter and butcher meat (20,21,22,23,24,25,26); transplant (20,21,22,23,24,25,26); harvest and store grains (13,14,15,16,17,18,19); wean animals (14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“Make the most of each day’s opportunities. Those who wait for their ship to come in often miss the boat”.
January 2023
“Every year, you make a resolution to change yourself.
This year, make a resolution to be yourself.”
Unknown
MID-ATLANTIC WEATHER WATCH: Quite mild with rain, wet snow west (1,2,3,4,5); mild and fair, then turning seasonably cold and brisk with occasional periods of light snow or flurries (6,7,8,9,10), 11-15 fair, then turning milder with rain showers (!!,12,13,14,15); occasional rain showers, mixed with wet snow at times and breezy (16,17,18,19,20). Fair and chilly (21,22,23) turning stormy with snow and wintery mix ( 24,25,26,27); colder and brisk, followed by a light wintry mix, with fair and milder weather thereafter (28,29,30,31).
SEVERE WEATER WATCH: Wintery mix in central parts of the region (24,25,26,27 with heavy snow in the north.
FULL MOON: The first Full Moon of 2023 will occur on Friday, January 6th. It has been called Hunger Moon because of the extreme difficulty finding food at this time. It has also been referred to as Wolf Moon because of the increased presence of wolf packs that boldly wander close to tribal villages and encampments searching for food.
SPECIAL NOTES: The 2023 Town and Country Almanack is its 227th edition! It has been continuously published since it first appeared in 1797 and 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. Both he and his partner and son-in-law, Daniel May, would be proud to see their almanac continuing to provide even more reliable weather forecasts and astronomical data vital to 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.
HOLIDAYS: New Year’s Day falls on Sunday, January 1st and Epiphany follows on Friday, January 6th. Martin Luther King, Jr., famed civil rights activist leader, was born on January 15, 1929. His birthday is celebrated on the third Monday of the month. In 2023, that is Monday, January 16th. MLK will be forever remembered for paying the ultimate sacrifice pursuing unity and racial harmony which still eludes us today.
THE GARDEN: Start planning now! Collect nursery and seed catalogs and remember to place any orders early. Before you order, check out return policies, guarantees, and shipping charges. Time your early gardening and lawn activities with anticipated sales at local merchants. Be sure to shake or brush off heavy snow from the branches of your evergreens and shrubs. The light fluffy snow poses no real threat, but if it should become wet and frozen, the weight dramatically increases. Branches are more brittle when the plants are dormant, and the weight of the snow may snap them off.
THE FARM: Best for planting root crops (13, 14, 15); weeding and stirring the soil (30, 31); planting above-ground crops (6, 7, 24, 25); harvesting all crops (18, 19); the best days for setting hens and incubators (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 28, 29, 30, 31); the slaughtering and butchering of meat (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27); transplanting (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27); the weaning of all small animals and livestock (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20); harvesting and storing grains (14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20).
J. GRUBER’S THOUGHT FOR TODAY’S LIVING
“The next twelve 12 months offers 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.”