These photos were taken about one mile from Brattleboro on two farms on April 28 and April 29. They show Jersey dairy cows and a blossoming pear tree and azalea bush. When there isn't snow on the ground, these cows live on pasture. In the photo, the cows are waiting to enter their barn to be milked while they eat alfalfa pellets or grain. The closer cow is drooling. Click the photos, then scroll down, to enlarge.

Vermont is known for several aspects of the good life—breathtaking, mountainous scenery; a reduced focus on materialism; and a never-ending stream of organic, local cuisine. This cultural oasis with a northern clime is not, however, known for its wine or viticulture. In fact, the stereotype is that only tart, overly sweet, highly acidic fruit wines are produced here, because blueberries, apples, rhubarb and cranberries can thrive where grapes cannot.

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