Sugar time!

Fingers crossed, the outside temperature is supposed to go above freezing during the day and below freezing at night for the next week.

image from Accuweather.com

So that means it's time to tap the maples and collect sap.

First task is to dress up like Elmer Fudd.  Because the snow is so unusually deep, don some snowshoes too.  It truly adds to the total look.

Next, using a 7/16th bit, drill a hole into the tree but not too far in.  The sap runs close to the surface.

Then tap a spile gently taking care not break off the top part that holds the sap bucket lid.

Then hang the buckets and lids.

Lastly, sit back and wait for the familiar drip, drip, drip sound that signifies it's sugar time.