Winter Cheer!

Before becoming a mom, no one told me how much time I’d spend simply following my toddler around our yard. He’s perfectly content doing laps around the house picking up sticks, saying hello to bugs and digging in the mulch. I know I need to get creative this winter when we still want fresh air but options are limited. The ideas in “Frosty Fun” on page 38 got me excited to experience winter through my son’s eyes, especially the one about turning the yard into a canvas! No matter your age, the activities will inspire you to embrace the season—yes, even the snow!

Whether you love or hate the fluffy white stuff, we can all agree that it has its moments. It’s stunning when bright red, puffy cardinals perch on snow-covered branches and when American robins snatch berries from frozen trees. Find those photos and more in this issue’s special “Bird Tales” on page 23.

Also in this issue, check out the finalists from our Birds & Blooms Photo Contest on page 45. Our staff narrowed almost 5,000 entries down to 12, and now it’s your turn help us crown a winner. All the entries were amazing, and we’re grateful for every single one of them. You, our talented readers, help us create this beautiful magazine.

And from all of us at Birds & Blooms, we wish you a happy and birdy holiday season. Thank you for reading and sharing your backyard adventures with us.