Cold therapy isn’t just for athletes. Getting outside at all times of year is good for the soul. However brief your wander, the crisp air and reflected sunlight of a frigid, snowy day can really boost your day. I find myself more motivated and less concerned about turning up the heat once I return to the house.

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It is magical how wildlife tracks appear in our field within minutes of any snowstorm, particularly at night. The deer (and more) arrive as soon as you turn your back. It’s a good reminder of all the activity that happens under our noses, every day of the year. The snow just leaves a trace.

Entry and exit of squirrel tracks up a tree.

Ostrich fern seed stalks. In a few short months, there will be fresh fiddleheads growing here, in a secluded spot by the stream.

The deer have been busy circling this old apple tree searching for ghost apples that are buried under the snow — and there were plenty this year!

Stalks in the afternoon light. This is the field where many of our wild herbs grow — goldenrod, yarrow, milkweed, black cherry, and so much more, dormant under the snow, saving their energy so they are ready to burst forth the instant the ground warms. We have a very short summers here at the base of the White Mountains, and perennials are very good at getting a jumpstart on the growing season.