Just as a theater starts you off with some advertisements, I’m starting you off with a few announcements:
There are still spaces available for the April 27th Early Spring Wildflower and Foraging workshop. I don’t know which treasures we’ll find, but I know it will be good!
Three new events have been posted since the last blog:
On May 10-12, the “Build Your Own Family Adventure” gives guests an opportunity to come stay in a two-bedroom suite (3 suites available). There is a lot going on in the area that weekend, so Iowisota would be a great staging point for going out and about.
On the morning of May 18th, Gordon Dietzman (an experienced photographer and nature educator) is providing a nature photography workshop. There is a lot going on in the area that weekend as well, so we’re also offering accommodation for those who want to come for the workshop and spend the rest of the weekend exploring in the Driftless Area.
The third event we’ve added is a recurring free monthly “Women’s Walk in the Woods”, with the first one this Thursday afternoon at 4:30 pm. “So,” you may ask, “what’s the deal with a women-only hike???” Having been involved in the Minnesota Women’s Woodland Network for many years, I’ve seen the power and joy of women sharing knowledge of the outdoors with each other. We can capture a similar experience here. Don't worry men, there will be other opportunities when we'll welcome you.
You can register for any of these events on the Iowisota website events page.
Now for the short clip of what’s new in the woods… Oh so much! Every morning, the shimmering pool of backwaters across the road beckons us to come watch the parade of waterfowl headed north. As we watched ducks make their grand entrances and exits the other day, we saw the side act of otters frolicking. Birds are appearing in pairs… a pair of bald eagles, a pair of pileated woodpeckers, pairs of mourning doves, etc. The male finches and other birds are wearing their brighter wardrobe. This play has romance! The chorus of birdsongs accompanies a change of set. The woods and waters are alive all summer long, but things are so visible right now before the trees put up the curtain of leaves. Cued by recent rains, the set is changing hue. The hillsides are awash with a light green flush of gooseberry leaves. Spring ephemeral plants are making an appearance, including spring beauties and toothwort. Patches of stinging nettles and sochan (cutleaf coneflower) are sprouting to a delicious size. The garlic mustard is coming up too, reminding me that I need to prepare for this year’s battle against invasive species. Did I ever mention how distracting it is to live in a place where nature is always putting on a show?!
Inside of the house, excitement is building: We have drawer boxes! We are blessed to have our son build our personal and guest kitchens, both of which feature gorgeous white ash raised panel cupboard doors and drawer fronts. However, this is not a small project and other commitments have slowed the completion and installation of drawer boxes. This week, drawers are happening. The indoor spaces are coming together nicely, now we can get on with the show!
You’re invited to come enjoy Spring at Iowisota with us! It is a unique performance every day!
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