Coping with Winter
We’ve had a few cloudy days here, some rain, a bit of snow
these past few weeks. Things look bare and winter-worn and we are only a third
of the way into the season. The trees reveal their hidden nests, small ones for
birds, larger ones for squirrels. The natural world seems to be in waiting
mode.
What about all the excitement of the new year? Has it
disappeared already?
Not for Mother Nature, it hasn’t. Nature is alive and
active: there is life to protect during the cold months. The leaves may be gone
but the trees have merely slowed down, conserving their energy in a process
called dormancy, waiting for Spring. Squirrels are busy fattening up for the
coming cold weather still to come. Birds fluff up their feathers to keep
themselves warm as they munch on the seed in the feeders or wherever they can
find it and seek shelter in coniferous tree branches. Deer huddle in groups,
slow their metabolism, and watch out for each other. Chipmunks semi-hibernate,
lowering their body temperature, though they don’t actually sleep. They are coping with winter in their own
special ways.
And what about us? How are we coping with winter?
Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean we have to hibernate.
It’s a good time to reconnect with friends who are busy all summer. Libraries
offer programs like book discussions, art exhibits, author visits. Forget
resolutions – follow your intentions to do what feels right to you. Every year,
every season has its excitement. It’s called life.
How trees survive winter:
Birds keep warm in winter:
Posts
Yes, I know there are exciting things to see and do but this week has been so cold, all I want to do is stay indoors, do crosswords and read. When the temperature zooms up to 35-40 degrees, I'll feel allot better about winter!!
ReplyDeleteWish I was doing those puzzles with you, Claire! And making snow sculptures together when the flakes start falling.
ReplyDelete