Deep Freeze in North Carolina

This is the winter that won't let go, at least from the northeast to NC.  We woke up to freezing rain and ice on bushes and trees.  The schools were working on 3 hour delays or cancelled.  Good grief I was hoping to get away from winter.  There have been beautiful sunny days with temperatures in the 60's and low 70's which we have enjoyed.  Also the dog woods, daffodils and other spring flowers are in full bloom which helps the cold days not seem so bad.

Once we figured the roads were safe to be on (more to avoid the natives) we headed to Southern Pines for lunch with our son and dil.  The barbecue restaurant called "Dickey's" was the pick.  Great choice, from the minute I stepped in the door I knew it was going to be good.  The place smelled of woodsmoke mixed with the scent of roasted meat.  There is pork, chicken and beef choices that are chopped or sliced in front of you.  If I could have taken the whole beef brisket home, well that would have been an "awwwww moment".   I behaved and decided on the beef brisket salad which was a good choice!  The Romain lettuce was fresh, Beef Brisket was beyond delicious and it was topped with fried straw onions.  A little Ranch dressing with their original barbecue sauce and I was more than satisfied.  I'm always happy to enjoy a good meal out.  Nothing upsets me more than to pay for a restaurant meal which is less to be desired and I have had my share of disappointing meals.  I also have come to the conclusion, word of mouth out weighs the advertising.  Go with the locals or by the amount of cars in a parking lot.

No Tim Horton's down here.  I admit a trip anywhere in the Northern Tier requires a coffee stop, like "double, double" please!  Even if they don't brew my number 1 choice  JMC , I do like their coffee when possible.

We have been discussing garden seeds for the last couple days and tomorrow is the big day.  Off to Carthage and the little farm store that sells every kind of seed imaginable.  Of course we get the same every year although last year I bought baby lima beans to try.  Shucking them last September I said never again, it was work!  Then we ate the first package and there was no doubt we would plant them again.  Much tastier than from the store.  Of course, the real deal.

The delicious Beef Brisket Salad.  No plates, served on waxed brown paper.

I didn't know potatoes grew this big!