Stimulus Package

Printer-friendly versionSend to friend

2-6-09

Stimulus Package
Welcome to Auglaize Outdoors, a column for readers who enjoy the outdoors. In this column we will inspire you and your family to journey outdoors and explore. Be it on one of the great trails that cross our county, in your own back yard or at a park in your community. Together we will discover the natural treasures that exist in our everyday environment.

If going outside is not possible for you, pull yourself up to a window with a view. The ability to sit quietly and observe will be rewarded in nature. Much of what we explore outdoors can be observed by closely paying attention to sight, sound, and smell clues. So turn off the computer and put down that remote. Fire up your senses and let’s explore. Don’t forget to bring a sense of adventure!

What a start to the month of February! This past week we saw deep drifts of snow disappeared in the 50° heat and deluge of rain. Top that off with a wild wind that rearranged trees, shingles and anything that wasn’t nailed down. The landscape was quickly transformed from frozen winter tundra to muddy spring like bogs. It is hard to know from one day to the next what to expect.

The weather this time of year can cause despair. The National economy and political realignment are causing quite a stir. Taking matters in my own hands, I have come up with a two phase stimulus package for dealing with changing seasons and uncertain weather.

Phase I- Don’t give up on winter. More snow is coming. In anticipation I am keeping all my winter boots, parka, snow pants, mittens and hats ready even if I do wear the occasional spring coat. I refuse to put away the cross country skis, snow sled or shovel. I recall cross country skiing in April so better to keep the skis ready than waste time digging them out again.

Phase II- Spring isn’t far away. On my reading table are stacks of catalogs. Seed and garden supplies temp me to think ahead to the coming flower and vegetable garden planting season. Bicycle and camping catalogs provide inspiration for planning outdoor adventures. I even attended a bicycle maintenance workshop at the J & D Bicycle Shop in Wapakoneta to get ready for the cycling season to begin.

What can you do in this uncertain season? Take a hike! A great time to explore is in the morning when cold overnight temperatures refreeze the ground. Pay close attention to the signs of spring. Make a mental note of how many birds or critters to you see. Observe tree buds beginning to swell and early plant growth. Repeat the same hike each week and watch springs gradual arrival. You will feel great getting out in nature, getting a workout and watching the coming spring.

Allison Brady, Executive Director
Heritage Trails Park District- Your Auglaize County Parks