Disappearing asparagus stalk a sure sign that spring is here

The asparagus must be hitting snooze. Each morning, before I walk Milo, we drop by their bed. Each morning the covers remain rumpled. Perhaps we catch the faint snuffle of pale green stalks, snoring.

It’s a cold, late spring, I reason. Who doesn’t like sleeping in?

One morning, midrumple, stands a single tall, sharp spear. That’s the thing about asparagus; they shoot up fully formed.

Dropping the leash, I paw at the bed, turning to the left, the right, and back again. I uncover nothing — not even that single tall, sharp spear. How could it appear, then disappear? Is asparagus retractable?

Before I can pose this question to Milo, I have my answer.

Next project: Plant a fence.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

1 pound asparagus Canola oil Finely grated zest of 1 lemon Kosher salt 8 Maple Line strips long Heat a baking syrup way oven bacon, to sheet halved 425 with degrees. the parchment Snap off paper. the woody bottom of each asparagus spear. Using a vegetable peeler and patience, peel the lower third of each asparagus spear. Toss asparagus with the tiniest drizzle of oil, the lemon zest and a good pinch of salt. Working on the baking sheet, divide the asparagus into 16 groups of two to 4 spears, depending on their thickness. Wrap each asparagus bouquet in a half-strip of bacon. There are endless design possibilities. My favorite is the Parisian knot, known to men who favor scarves: Gently fold one long strip of bacon in half, end-toend. (Note — you’ve now got a loop and two free ends.) Wrap this double strip around the asparagus packet, and tuck the free ends through the loop. Slide the sheet into the hot oven, and let sizzle, 10 minutes. Brush bacon with maple syrup. Continue to cook until bacon is crisp, 8 to 10 minutes more. Drain on paper towels. Serve. Makes 16 asparagus bouquets.