We think of winter as a time when nature sleeps, animals hibernate, and birds have already flown south to warmer climates. Forest trees stand dormant, almost semi-comatose, as winter rages on, or do they! Bring your snowshoes and enjoy an approximately two-hour trek through the forest. Come learn how the forest is alive, caring for her wild inhabitants, sheltering and feeding her winter residents. Do all animals hibernate? Which species of birds remain all winter, and what do they do for food? Why is snow cover so vital in maintaining a healthy forest? These and many more questions will be answered during this hike in the woods. Following the hike, we will gather around the firepit, so come bring a chair, warm up by the fire, and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or tea (provided). Please note: Deb graciously volunteers her time and property. Donations in support of maintenance and set up are appreciated and can be made at the time of the course.  Please pre-register as a minimum of 4 people is required to run the course.

In 2005, Deb became a registered Maine Guide, guiding people in Maine’s great outdoors. A former reserve police officer, EMT, firefighter, and crisis counselor, she was also part of the search and rescue team with the USAF and a member of its critical incident stress management team. She has spent her entire life as an amateur archeologist, historian, and naturalist. In 2014, she retired from farming in Aroostook County and moved to her 50-acre wooded lot, living off the grid and close to nature.

Fermenting vegetables preserves them and adds nutritional value and probiotics. It's so easy - you’ll be a master in no time! Basic fermentation techniques will be demonstrated and you can then use them on pretty much any vegetable. Class will include microbiology basics, troubleshooting, and ferment creation. Zoom link and materials list will be provided upon registration. FMI, contact Emma via her site at emmaholder.com/fermentation. Pre-registration is required to receive online link.

Emma Holder studied microbiology and immunology at McGill University, where she graduated with a BSc in 1991 and a masters degree in 1993. Her passion is fostering human connections and offering engaging educational opportunities to promote happy, healthy lifestyles.

It’s been a long week, and time to relax! Join local artist Sue Cannafarina for this two-hour class of monthly Friday evening painting fun while learning techniques used by the impressionists and Bob Ross (Lol). Bring a beautiful image to life ranging from still lifes, landscapes, and object studies. No experience is necessary, and all materials are provided. These are great opportunities to spend time with friends or make new ones. Bring home a work of art each meeting! Classes run once a month through June. Please Note: Each month is a separate session. Each session is $30/pp/per class. Pre-registration for each class is required as class size is limited.

It’s not just a matter of teaching old, young, or other “dogs” new tricks. You can do it! Technology is more user-friendly than you may realize. Learn the basics of informational and transferable skills focusing on what you want to do and how to simplify life using your computer, laptop, or tablet as well as the Internet and Gmail. Bring your laptop or tablet. If you need one to use, just let us know. Please pre-register as space is limited.

Explore the art of weaving, an ancient form of art that promotes wholeness and bridges broken connections. Create a small project for your enjoyment while promoting overall wellness. So let’s relax, breathe, and get started! Please pre-register as a minimum of 4 people is required to run the course.

From tree to final tasting, join hosts Nate Maclure and Samantha Person as they guide you through the steps of making maple syrup using the newest technology along with some older tried and true methods as well.  Enjoy tasting the delicious final product with a traditional pancake brunch!

     Oak Hill Farm, 14 Husky Haven, South Hiram

     Free tours

     $5 Pancake Brunch 

     (Pay at site if you would like Pancake Brunch)

So, you’re on a budget, managing a bank account, and wondering about the next steps in your financial journey. In Adulting 102, we will look at the differences between saving and investing, and, if you are ready to invest, how to get started. Other topics will include protecting your assets (insurance), advanced budgeting, and understanding the role economics plays in our financial life. Join Steve Kautz, Financial Education Programs Specialist from the Finance Authority of Maine for this virtual workshop as you take the next steps into adulting. Pre-registration is required to receive online link.

Afraid to ask someone how to use your phone? Don’t be! The truth is most of us find out as we go. Different phones often have the same things in different places. Let’s join forces and figure this out together! Please pre-register as space is limited.