Squirrel Eating Lunch

This squirrel - fuzzy with its winter fur - is grabbing a quick lunch before heading up the tree.

Snow Sculptures

 The snow sculptures in Stillwater were quite impressive. 

Waterlogue - Cardinal

The cardinals have been visiting the feeders during the winter a lot. It's always so uplifting to see them, especially after not seeing them a lot during the summer. I think all the native plants provide enough food for them that they do not need the seeds at the feeder. Now, however, with the cold they need all the food they can get.

Checking on the Land

During the winter we still walk the property to make sure that everything is okay. It's important as caretakers of these ten acres that animals are safe and not hurt anywhere on it. We enjoyed seeing all the activity wherever we walked - tracks, rubbings on trees, and "beds" that the animals made in the grass and weeds.

Ice Crystals

It is so cold today that ice crystals are covering the doors and windows. 

Cooper in the Snow

Cooper loves playing outside in the winter. He was waiting for me near the gate, his muzzle dusted with snow.

Native Plants in Winter

We leave the native plants up in the winter to provide a landing spot for birds and cover for wildlife. Many of the plants have seeds still in them that can be consumed during the winter. 

Pileated Woodpecker

The pileated woodpeckers are looking for insects on the pine trees and eating the suet in the small, square feeders. I'm surprised at how low these birds will go to the ground looking for food.

Surprise Visit from a Coyote

The dogs were barking incessantly today. When I looked out the window, I saw why: a coyote was right next to the backyard behind the woven wire fence. This bold coyote as well as its companion stayed around for quite a while before disappearing into the west pasture.

St. Lucia Day

Olivia had the honor of representing St. Lucia at Christ Lutheran Church today. This annual tradition is something that the congregation looks forward to not only because it celebrates the holiday, but also because it celebrates a graduating senior.

Breakfast with Santa

The Scandia-Marine Lions hosted a Breakfast with Santa today. The children were excited to share what they wanted with Santa.

Sophia in the Handbell Choir

Sophia performed as part of the handbell choir today at Bethel University. The choir did a pre-performance in the lobby as well as many pieces during the Festival of Christmas in Great Benson Hall. 

Rain in December

The weather is unusual this year. It rained last night and raindrops are still clinging to the branches this morning.