I’m not one for New Years Resolutions, however I always like to make a conscious effort to focus on something that is important that I may have let slip and reflect on the previous year. Wow, what a year it has been! Taking out all of the stress and uncertainties, there is something to be said about simplicity that this time has brought. Determining what the core intention is in whatever you are doing and finding the pleasure in those simple moments is what I have made to be my goal.

December brought such joy to the museum with our annual Christmas tree celebration, congratulations to the Community Kitten Rescue for receiving the most votes this year.  Despite it not being the same as last year, the magic was still alive. Visitors came in to see the trees, pick up craft kits, and also were given an opportunity to participate online. One of our visitors walked in the door and stood in awe [literal jaw drop on a 4 year old]. When I asked what she thought her response was, “this is the most magical place in the whole world”.  Kids are so wonderful, adaptive and smart! Even without all the bells and whistles that she experienced the year prior, she still walked around marvelling at the decorated trees enjoying the simplicity of the season.  There is something to learn from these kiddos, and I do everyday.

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Are you looking for something to do while at home? For the month of January we have partnered with Mike Harding, owner and puppeteer from Applefun Puppetry. Usually, we have Mike come from Toronto to do a show during the summer at Macpherson House where he entertains guests of all ages. This year Mike has put together a full month long program for our museum visitors to learn how to write a puppet show, how to make puppets and a stage of your very own. He will also be putting on a special show for us at the end of the month. This amazing opportunity is FREE for anyone interested and you can participate any time throughout the month of January. Videos will be sent out weekly on Fridays, but you are able to watch at a time that works best for you. If you were one of the 130 individuals who enjoyed crafts from the Museum in the month of December, you will be happy to know that we have another round of crafts that will be available for pickup in the month of February. Linda Fraser, owner of The Garden Studio in Kingston has done an amazing job at helping us put together these art kits. If you are interested in registering for the puppet workshop, or to hear more information about the art kits you can send me an email.

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A look ahead…Since we still aren’t able to have fieldtrips, I have been preparing for some online interactive resources.  With some help from Kate from the L&A County Library, websites and interactive tools are being developed and we are so excited! Tech based opportunities to reach our everyday visitors may also help us reach visitors from beyond our area. It also allows us to partner with artists and professionals that usually wouldn’t be available because of travel.  These are still in the works, but we are so excited to share with you over the next few months.
I hope you are able to enjoy the outdoors, or the simple beauty of a snowy morning. I’m more of a winter hibernation person myself, but I sure do love the still and calmness that winter brings.