Bellingham Parks & Recreation Leisure Guide
Issue link: https://bpr.uberflip.com/i/1324372
www.cob.org/parks • (360) 778-7000 1 www.cob.org/parks • (360) 778-7000 1 The shifts between seasons can be both subtle and quick. Only a month ago the trees still had myriad colored leaves dangling above and crunching underfoot, and today the branches are bare. The chickadees call to me when I refill the feeder. Now is a time to notice things that can't be seen any other time of year, such as the meandering structure of the tree limbs, the contrast of trees against the sky's changing background, the buds already optimistically forming on bare branches and shrubs, deer breath fogging the air, frozen water droplets highlighting the edges of things. Winter is a time for introspection. Following a truly unparalleled year, this winter is also a signal of the hope for what is to come. I also find winter to be a great time for self-care. Getting outside regardless of the weather is a perfect remedy for winter doldrums. Bundling up and shopping safely at local businesses is another great way to support our community. Hot buttered rum and Netflix. Get out and find those downtown snowflakes! And hopefully soon there will be snow! I love cross-country skiing and hope this year to get up near Mount Baker and out on some of the county's groomed trails. As this difficult year ends, I'm thankful for our community's resourcefulness and commitment to caring for each other, and most of all I'm so thankful for the passion and dedication of the Parks & Recreation staff. Throughout this exhausting and difficult year, they worked diligently to keep our parks and trails open and beautiful, they developed new and exciting virtual programs, and they built new parks for our community to enjoy. I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Enjoy the weather and don't forget to donate to help those in our community who are struggling. Stay safe everyone. Nicole C. Oliver Parks & Recreation Director WINTER IS HERE! Director's Letter Elizabeth Park Snowfall by Jennifer Willner