"The "List"

 

“The List”

 Cedar tree in the snow

 

It’s a busy time of year.  I must admit, in order to get everything done, I rely on “The List”.  “The List” is always with me and always on my mind.  Buried under “musts” and “shoulds”, often self-imposed, fixating on “The List” is not the way to enjoy the season. Fortunately, I also have the solution!  It’s time to head outside for a break.  Take a walk with me, friends always make things better.

 

                                                                               Winter Woods

 Let’s start with a walk through the snowy woods of Warner Park.

  Cedar Waxwing         

                       Barred Owl                        

                  

           Northern Cardinal

 We’ll see beautiful winter birds.

 

  Driad Saddle in Snow            

       Eastern Gray Squirrel Tracks         

   Crowned Parchment Fungus

 

Nature will surprise us along the way.

 Bird Feeding Station in the Snow 

We can warm up with hot tea from our thermos and watch the birds at the feeders from the BIRD classroom.

 

Warner Park Gift Shop

 

Of course we can stop by the Nature Center Gift Shop and pick up a few gifts. I think my Dad will really love a walking stick made by Mr. Will, I’ll add a plush Audubon bird to my niece’s collection, and anyone would love the 2023 Birds of Tennessee calendar by Graham Gerdeman.  This stop is not a break to enjoy nature, but it does allow me to mark a few things off “The List” (I know we are escaping “The List”, but it’s always good to get gifts.) https://the-warner-parks-giftshop.myshopify.com/collections/all?page=1  

 

                                                 

                                                         S’mores                                                              

  

    Wreath Making

 A fun family outing is sometimes an antidote to “The List.”  The Winter Solstice Celebration is just that activity.  It is outside and there are activites for all ages.   Logan’s Snack Shack food truck will be there, so no need to plan dinner, and best of all, s’mores for dessert!

 

Beginning of Luminary Trai

A hike down the luminary trail is a wonderful way to relax and reconnect with nature.

 

Warner Park at Sunset

Which brings me back to the whole purpose of this blog.  This is the time of year when it’s easy to be overwhelmed with many real obligations and self-imposed expectations.  Remember to give yourself a gift and take a hike.   By Melissa Donahue