“In January’s hush, a frosty air, Snow-kissed tales, everywhere. Branches glisten, icicles cling, New beginnings softly sing.
Beneath the pines, tracks unfold, Nature’s stories, secrets told. Birds watching, in skies so wide, Wings that flutter, snowy pride.
Inside, a hearth with crackling wood, Warmth and stories, there it stood. Baking treats with laughter’s grace, A cozy haven, in cold’s embrace.
Anonymous
In SE Wisconsin, we woke up on January 13th to a heavy white blanket of snow. Despite the forecast predicting the storm, the sheer amount that covered the landscape was truly astonishing. The snow inspired people to embrace coziness, while nature was left to manage the best it could.
With heavy snow outside, our home became a cozy spot for cooking, enjoying nature, and helping out nature’s companions. We invite you to follow along as we share the simple pleasures of a snowy month and post-snow melt discoveries and reflections.
Cooking Up Comfort
As the bitter cold and deep snow engulfed the world outside, our kitchen became a hub of warmth and culinary delights. We smoked a chicken, crafted our own butter – a first, and whipped up delicious soul-warming dishes, culminating in a chocolate cake recipe made from scratch. The art of cooking intertwined with the beauty of the winter landscape outside our windows, made the perfect expression of different modes of storytelling.
The Gathering
Throughout the month, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of fulfillment, knowing our humble birdfeeder had become a lifeline for both our feathered friends and furry companions. Looking out the window and seeing this, reminded us of the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of providing a helping hand.
Nature’s Secrets Through Our Trail Cam
In the heart of the natural world that surrounds us, the introduction of a trail cam has become our window into the hidden wonders of wildlife. Throughout January, we’ve enjoyed watching footage of the creatures that share our woods. The trail cam, a silent observer admidst the trees, becomes a storyteller documenting the mystery that unfolds when humans are not present.
Post-Snow Melt Revelations: Fires, Antlers, and Nature’s Bittwersweet Stories
As the snow melted away, revealing a world transformed, we embarked on a journey of discovery in the thawing landscape. Gathering around our fire, we uncovered the remnants of winter – a shed antler tucked away under the snow, intricate animal tracks tracing unseen journeys, fallen trees creating new nooks for life to flourish. Sadly, amidst these wonders, we discovered the loss of our honeybees. Nature, in its thawing beauty, presents both joys and sorrows, weaving together life’s intricate stories.
“LITTLE JANUARY TAPPED AT MY DOOR TODAY. AND SAID, “PUT ON YOUR WINTER WRAPS, AND COME OUTDOORS TO PLAY.” LITTLE JANUARY IS ALWAYS FULL OF FUN; UNTIL THE SET OF SUN. LITTLE JANUARY WILL STAY A MONTH WITH ME AND WE WILL HAVE SUCH JOLLY TIMES, JUST COME ALONG AND SEE.”
Winifred C. Marshall
Is that a chupacabra in the trailcam pic, next to the antler pic?
Lol, wouldn’t that be something. 😉