The inevitable slowing of winter causes us to reflect on those creatures who live their lives outdoors. What happens to them as the temperatures drop and fresh food becomes scarce?  Wonders still abound as we consider the cycle of forests and foliage and

mistletoe, of lynx, deer, snowshoe hare, and  the mysteries of hibernation.  And we focus on the adaptability of nature in the face of a burgeoning human population. Wintering birds give us hope, we dream of butterflies, milkweed, and maple sugar.