Searching for spring in Miyanomori! Just when we thought temperatures would warm toward summer it turned sharply colder on Saturday, May 25. In the past, I explored around Nishiokoppe Shrine with Mr. Takada, who once served as the regional revitalization team’s wood-learning (mokuiiku) coordinator and as a forestry curator for the Board of Education. Since bear sighting reports last spring, Miyanomori has been a place we haven’t had many chances to enter. The snow has completely disappeared, and grasses are growing vigorously as we walked, spotting the white flowers that bloom in spring. With the pocket field guide Mr. Takada gave me in hand, I looked down at the ground and up into the trees to observe them. If you listen closely, you can hear bird calls between the rustling of leaves. People around the village often teach me the names of flowers and wild plants, but I struggle to remember them. Little by little, I hope to learn by comparing photos with real specimens, sometimes tasting or smelling them and using my five senses. I enjoy walking alone, but it’s also fun to stroll with a few people and listen to their voices. Thank you to everyone who joined us! #Nishiokoppe Village #Miyanomori #nature #spring #wood learning #community education #walk #nature observation #If you find new spruce buds, be sure to touch them