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The swing back to warmer weather is slowly but surely underway. Nature is taking its cues from the sun’s return to the north; as you can see in the photo, the shift is dramatic. Back in late December, the sun rose well to the south, tucked to the right of the farm. Before long, that sunrise will move out of our direct view entirely until next fall.
Along with the shifting light, the days are getting noticeably longer. We’re currently enjoying ten and a half hours of daylight, gaining about three minutes every single day. The deep, bone-chilling cold of late January is officially a memory.
Finding a New Rhythm
I’ve noticed the change most at the woodpile. I’m only filling the indoor wood boxes a few times a week now, rather than every day, and the stoves no longer require constant feeding. It’s funny how fueling the fire becomes a reflex; lately, I’ve caught myself tossing in a log out of habit, only to end up with a house that’s much too warm for comfort!
Looking Ahead
While spring is still a ways off, I’m already prepping for the coming season on the water (once the ice decides to leave, of course). I’ve spent a good portion of the winter streamlining my office equipment and procedures. My goal was to make things easier for both of us, and the slower pace of winter reservations provided the perfect window to get that done.
I’ve also been diving into three projects:
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The Archives: I’m currently compiling twenty years’ worth of blog posts and newsletters into a book. It’s been a much bigger—and more enjoyable—task than I imagined. I’m a few hundred pages in, and the trip down memory lane has been incredible.
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Outdoor Leadership: I’m once again coordinating the judges for Maine’s SkillsUSA competition. This outdoor leadership segment is unique to our state, so we’ve had to develop the testing and scoring from scratch. I’ll admit I felt a bit overwhelmed last year, but this time around, I’m much better prepared. I’m looking forward to meeting the next group of young leaders; if they’re anything like last year’s crew, I know I’ll be impressed by their poise and knowledge.
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Planning A Vacation: Argy and I are planning a trip to Newfoundland in late May. My goal is to see an iceberg. Of course there will also be some guided fishing and a couple of boat trips (not counting the overnight ferries to and from the island).
Again thank you all for your support over the last 40 years. I’m truly looking forward to getting back on the water with all of you again this spring.
As always come write or call if I can help you create your outdoor memories. Or make a reservation online.
Best regards,
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