<p>
	<img alt="" src="{filedir_5}IMG_0041.jpg" style="float: right; width: 300px; height: 227px; " />We are smack dab in the middle of one of the coldest, snowiest winter&rsquo;s I have experienced in Michigan since first arriving here 8 years ago and all the daily shoveling, squeaky snow underfoot, frozen nostrils (on the inside), cracking/creaking trees, and very little sun has been completely wonderful!&nbsp; Long time residents are even giving the nod of approval saying, this is what winter used to be like.&nbsp; Of course a productive winter calls for an increased work load for staff as we work to keep our trails groomed, drive clear, and roofs shoveled.&nbsp; All that on top of preparing to lead and teach school groups.&nbsp; Luckily we have been blessed with a super group of courageous winter interns, or winterns, to help us get the job done.</p>
<p>
	Lauren Westerman joins our teaching staff having finished her masters in Environmental Science from Taylor University.&nbsp; She is amazed by the complexities of the natural world and feels called to share that amazement with others.&nbsp; One week into the internship, I have watched Lauren take full advantage of the opportunities our Michigan winter affords like skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, and reaching the 5<sup>th</sup> rung climbing the ladder to nowhere.</p>
