We boil and boil and boil and boil it all day long…

Maple Syrup Time ~ Pete Seeger

“First you get the buckets ready, clean the pans and gather firewood,
Late in the winter, it’s maple syrup time.

You need warm and sunny days but still a cold and freezing nighttime
For just a few weeks, maple syrup time.

We boil and boil and boil and boil it all day long,
Till ninety sev’n percent of water evaporates just like this song
And when what is left is syrupy don’t leave it too long –
Watch out for burning! Maple syrup time.

I know it’s not the quickest system but each year I can’t resist it.
Get out the buckets, and tap the trees in time –

Making it is half the fun, and satisfaction when it’s done.
Keep up the fire! Maple syrup time.

My grandpa says perhaps it’s just a waste of time.
Ah! but no more than this attempt to make a happy little rhyme,

So pat your feet or swing your tail, but keep in good time.
Keep up the fire! Maple syrup time.

I’ll send this song to Scott and Helen, Up in Maine where they are dwellin,
Hoping they don’t mind a little advice in rhyme.

As in life or revolution, rarely is there a quick solution,
Anything worthwhile takes a little time.
We boil and boil and boil and boil it all day long.

When what is left is syrupy, don’t leave it on the flame too long.
But seize the minute, build a new world, sing an old song.
Keep up the fire! Maple syrup time.”

From all of us at the Millstream Pocket,

Happy Spring and cheers to Maple Syrup Time!