Weekly check-in with Jessica from the UMaine 4-H Learning Centers at Tanglewood and Blueberry Cove. With the 4-H and Earth Pledges, nature appreciations (what we've been noticing in nature this week), and a reflection. Today is 01/25/2022, this morning it is about 21*F in Lincolnville under overcast skies. We received about an inch or so snow last night with light flurries right now! It's winter!
Our nature sightings were awesome this week--so much activity outside, so much to see.
Today's reflection is inspired by an activity we do in our Winter Open Air Classroom Programs: Sleep, Stay, Leave-- or hibernate, be active, migrate. As the pandemic and winter carry on, there are some folks who feel the weight of needing to do and go at the same rate they might during warmer months. However, it is important to remember that humans are animals and that animals all behave differently in wintertime. In the way that bears, turtles, or frogs will burrow down and sleep winter away by hibernating, some humans take the opportunity to slow down in winter, take advantage of shorter days (longer nights) for more sleep or a cold day to stay in and cozy. Some humans may be more like deer, wild turkeys, chickadees, or squirrels that stay active in winter, keeping themselves moving and surviving, in the same way, that most humans do, especially in northern climates where many folks enjoy outdoor winter sports. And still, yet, we have many bird and insect species that migrate in the fall, heading down (or up) toward the Equator for a more mild season. Humans do that as well as we see population numbers rise in states like Florida and Arizona during the winter months.
The important thing to remember is that you do what is right for you. So often we get caught up in comparing ourselves to each other which isn't a healthy way to be. While I do like to cross country ski and take winter walks, I also am inclined to give in to my inner house cat and stay cozy by the fire with a good book. But I like the seasons and the life flow they carry, so I am not inclined to go some places warmer for winter (I moved north for a reason!).
Summer camp registration is open for both Tanglewood and Blueberry Cove, some day camp sessions are filling fast. We are also hiring for our spring and summer seasons--check out our website for more information. Until next week, I hope you and yours are doing well, staying healthy. Take care of yourselves. ❤️🍀
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