There's something truly magical about venturing into the great outdoors with someone who not only appreciates the beauty of nature but also understands its intricate details. This is the experience I get every time I go on an adventure with Bill, a retired educator whose passion for nature remains as vibrant as ever.
Our excursions are often simple yet profoundly enriching. Today, we visited Blue Spruce Park for a bird-feeding session. The experience was exhilarating — standing still, waiting patiently for the birds to gently approach and perch on our hands, eagerly pecking at the nuts meticulously prepared by Bill.
After our time at Blue Spruce Park, we headed to the serene Yellow Creek Park for bird watching. Bill's encyclopedic knowledge and almost magical ability to spot and identify birds were on full display. Equipped with binoculars and guided by his expertise, we had the opportunity to observe and learn about various birds, including the nimble coots gliding across the water and the majestic tundra swans with their elegant, long necks.
An adventure with Bill wouldn't be complete without going salamander hunting. Bill's excitement is palpable as he carefully turns over rocks and digs into the moist soil in search of these elusive creatures. He respects their habitat, ensuring minimal disturbance.
Bill's love for nature and his eagerness to share his knowledge is a reminder that educators never really retire; their classrooms just become bigger. I feel incredibly lucky to have met Bill and to be able to learn from him. These adventures are more than just outings; they are enriching experiences that have deepened my appreciation for nature and its wonders.
Educators never retire, their classrooms just become bigger.
This sounds like a great day! Being in nature and learning about it 🍂🦆🐦