Worth the Wait!

In spring, we are surrounded by nature’s sights and sounds from the time we arrive in Harrington to the time we leave. Each week, there are new discoveries everywhere we look and we long to see each one of them up close. Our fingers get that ‘spring itch’! We want to hold them, examine them, watch how they move, and see how they react. However, seeds need a chance to sprout. Nests need to be built so eggs can be laid. Nature needs to ‘stretch its legs’ after a long, hard winter. As nature lovers, our job is to watch and wait patiently until the time is right and today all of our waiting paid off!

A Water Strider Morning

Sometimes the smallest things in nature offer the biggest surprises! When we trek down to the end of the pond each week, it’s common to see a number of water striders skimming across the surface of the water. In fact, we take it for granted that they’re there. However, after trying to make paper water striders that could stand on water, we decided we needed to find out exactly what their secret is. What stories do the photos tell and what surprised you the most? Do you think you have a greater appreciation for water striders now that you know more about them?

A Crayfish Afternoon

Last week, we were gifted with some sightings of crayfish in the stream behind the mill. Today, our mission was to see if we could catch a few of them so we could get a closer look and be able to understand them better. Use the pictures below to talk to your family about what you discovered about crayfish and how it will help you become a better caretaker of them.

Nature Updates and New Discoveries

Take a minute to think about all the things you have to wait for in your life - your birthday, holidays, a sleep-over, dinner, nature school every Friday, going on a trip, saving enough money to buy something special. Even the Great Blue Heron has to be patient and wait for just the right moment to spear his dinner. As Herons yourselves, you are doing an amazing job of understanding that it pays to wait for all those incredible moments that take our breath away when we’re together in Harrington!

Thank you again to Raccoon who captures the magic every week with his incredible photos!