Winter slips away
Trees transfer energy from roots to buds
Sugaring season arrives
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
Slough through hip deep snow
Auger short holes into the maples
Insert taps and hang pails
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
Initial pitter of sap drops hitting pail bottom
Then plop of drops splashing on the filling pail
Heave and empty full pails into collection tank
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
Oxen team trudging through snow with laden tank sled
Clear liquid sap swirls into holding tank
Carry dry wood to firebox
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
Kindle small flame
Soon fire roars angrily
Boiling pan fills with trees’ water of life
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
Steam fogs interior before spiraling through roof vent
Clear liquid transforms to thick golden fluid
Syrup drains through filler cloth
Anticipation of sweet syrup on pancakes
New nectar fills containers
Give precious gifts to relatives and friends
Sweet syrup oozes over hot pancakes
Anticipation fulfilled