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It’s hard to believe that the solstice, and the astronomical start of winter, is here – the temperatures have certainly been a bit above normal this December.

The best part of this warmer weather? The increased numbers of visitors we have seen heading out on the trails and enjoying a hike without needing layers of clothes to stay warm.

An added bonus? There have been a variety of surprises to find as you enjoy a warm December hike. Michael, a Moose Hill Teacher Naturalist, noted a few things as he has been out enjoying the trails. Perhaps you can spot a dandelion, maybe some mushrooms, or you might notice the scurrying of eastern chipmunks as they take advantage of the weather and the abundance of acorns. If you listen really closely, you may hear the high-pitched “peeps” of spring peepers, or perhaps there is a bird song, or two, that seems out-of-place from late migrants.

No matter the reason – enjoy getting out on the trails. Take time to look, listen, smell, and breathe in the beauty of Moose Hill. The activity in the woods and the arrival of the winter solstice reminded me of a great poem by Oliver Herford, writer, author, and illustrator:

I heard a bird sing

In the dark of December.

A magical thing

And sweet to remember.

“We are nearer to Spring

Than we were in September,”

I heard a bird sing

In the dark of December.