Key Countdowns: 2014

Soon the frozen white will fade and the green grass will appear. Not soon enough for many. Here's a numerical reminder that the flowers will eventually bloom here in Eastern Iowa!

43 days until Spring.

51 days until Kernels Opening Day.

134 days until the Freedom Festival.

161 days until the Great Jones County Fair.

Meantime, a fresh 2-4" on the way today. This video should soothe your shovel-weary psyche.

If that didn't help, Wickiup Hill Naturalists Have 3 Public Programs to Cure February’s Cabin Fever!

1. (Almost) Full Moon Owl Calling & Call Building
Thursday, February 13th, 6:00 – 7:30pm
Located at Wickiup Hill Learning Center
Join Naturalist Chuck Ungs for one of his most popular programs! The (Almost) Full Moon Calling & Call Building program starts indoors with the building of owl calls and a short program. Then take to the winter trail with Chuck, armed with your handmade call, to try and start a conversation with area barred owls. The (nearly) full moon will be up and showcasing a bright winter landscape. This is an outdoor experience you don’t want to miss. Registration is required and warm clothing is strongly encouraged. Call 319-892-6485 to register. One owl call per family. $5/adult, $2/child, or $10/family.

2. Snowsnake Family Day
Saturday, February 22, 10:00am – Noon
Located at Wickiup Hill Learning Center
Make your own snowsnake and then challenge your friends by throwing your “snake” down the chute. Naturalist Gail Barels will share this winter game’s Native American history and guide snake throwing. The “snowsnake” is a long, slender, polished wood stick that ranges from 3 to 9 feet long. The snowsnake track is created by dragging a log in snow up to a quarter mile. When the snowsnake is thrown and glides down the snow trough, it shimmies and gives the appearance of a snake movement. This program will be held even if there is not snow since a plastic track can also be used. Registration is required by February 20th.
Call 319-892-6485. $5 per snowsnake.

3. Gulp! Snack Time with the Education Animals
Wednesday, February 26, 2:30 – 3:30pm
Located at Wickiup Hill Learning Center
This is your chance to see predator/prey relationships in action. Come watch Naturalist Jenny Corbett feed the animals at Wickiup Hill. Learn what turtles, snakes and amphibians eat, how animals come to live at Wickiup Hill and what it means to be a famous critter. Once their bellies are full, participants will get a chance to touch the animals’ scale and scutes. Feeding typically lasts 20-30 minutes. Cost is $2/child. Call 319-892-6485 to register.

More info here.