You know how I get about big sky photos. The masthead this week is one of several posted by the park and you should definitely give it a click for the full vertical and to see the others taken at the same time from Boat Launches 1, 2, and 3.

With the popularity of Melodie Swartz-Higgins’ paint-by-number creations, we decided to craft a set of DIY bookmarks. The version shown here has been going out with our thanks to year-end donors (visit ppff.gives/invest-in-the-legacy to get in on the action).

Melodie’s latest creation takes us to snowy Lyman Run State Park courtesy of a photograph by Scott Morgan. Get the color key at ppff.online/paint-by-number.

While looking for photos to honor International Mountain Day (see below), I ran across this graceful, intriguing photo taken at Beam Rocks in the Forbes. Lillie Marshall, the blog/website creator, was kind enough to give me permission to use it. Find it, and the article that resulted, at aroundtheworldl.com/laurel-highlands-hiking-trail/.

The original blog is packed with lots of fun stuff, and her companion site, Drawingsof.com, is likewise really useful and entertaining. Learn English/grammar, a few life lessons, even tune in to your aura. I think you'll find it's time well spent.

Although December has yet to reach its full chilly potential, last week we asked for the signs of hypothermia. Indeed, Here's a good infographic for reference.

This week, I just want to talk about that hairdo. Can our little stylemeister really shoot those quills when threatened?

Enter each week to increase your chances of a fabulous prize at the end of the month when I'll draw one entry from all correct answers received during the month.

International Mountain Day - December 11th
2022 Theme - Women Move Mountains

Visit Pennsylvania's Conservation Heritage to read about the women who have moved mountains for Pennsylvania's environmental movement

Photo by Laurel Ridge State Park
National Trails Day Volunteers on the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail