Root River Park, Rochester, MN

Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 10:04 a.m.; 10 degrees feels like −2 due to 10 mph winds; light snow is falling

I arrive feeling strong-willed after choosing to get outside in the frigid weather. I set my mind on noticing something enduring winter.

​I first spot red-headed bush clover. Its dark spikes and rough texture peek out from the smooth, white snow. 

As I move along the trail, additional evidence of enduring gives me pause: tracks of turkey, rabbit, deer, pheasant, and tiny rodents. And also giant snow drifts that rise up from the trail and force a change in direction. Veering from the plan slightly tempers my initial determination.

Trudging forward on a new path, I remind myself of my intention and refocus on noticing what endures. I stop at a fork in the path and a meadow vole suddenly pops out of a tiny snow-tunnel at my feet! When it just as suddenly dives back into the snow-tunnel system, I follow the fork the vole took and a sense of playfulness enters my body.
My steps loosen and I roll with the uneven terrain.

​I leave with a strand of silly woven into the stubborn. I take with me this reminder from nature: joy can be found even in challenging conditions.