Sorry, but I have to point out the subtext for all concerned.
Record lows in the White Mountains for Ellen vs normal day in Winnipeg(ish) for Brenda... about the same thing. And I know what near record lows for Ellen means.
It's been extremely cold in Ottawa (and a transit strike makes it more so), but I can't complain (even if it takes an hour to walk in) because Winnipeg has it at least 20 degrees colder. My phone froze because it was in an outside pocket.
This last year was the first time I ever mulched a beardless iris (I got a bunch from the SJI convention and from Ensata) and my siberians may be the great beneficiary. The snowfall is much reduced from last year (it couldn't have been worse), so I can still look forward to a fine spring.
Best,
Sandy Ives in Ottawa
(and Maureen says she owes Brenda some hostas, the villain) | 
