maple sugaring

We took the kids maple sugaring at the environmental education center at a near by state park.  Mr. Man and I did this last year (the temperature was 75 degrees!) and thought it would be great to bring the whole family.

It felt so wonderful to be outdoors, breathing the crisp and fresh air (the year's temp 31).  They showed us how Native Americans originally discovered, collected, and stored maple sugar.  They demonstrated the evolution in maple sugaring technologies.  They taught us how to identify, tap, and care for maple trees.  This was truly a wonderful event.

Of course, our favorite part of the day was smelling the sweet syrup boiling and steaming,  Not quite the sugar shack of old, but it did give off such a yummy smell. And, we can't leave out the tasting.  No double dipping, they told us.  It was sooo tempting!

This day, connected with nature, is a day I'm thankful for.  It's amazing how a simple day and a little learning can put the world back in perspective.  It's amazing how my children can appreciate it as well, despite the whining about the cold and the disconnection from technology.  I am simply thankful for the sweetness of it all!