The past couple of months have been an exciting blend of new experiences and meaningful connections at the refuge. One of the highlights was participating in two duck counts. During my first count, I observed and familiarized myself with the protocol, while the second time, I actively collected data. It was exciting to explore the area, identify different bird species, and better understand their migratory habits. 

Another memorable experience was leading the "Guess Who Am I?" program in Spanish for five kindergarten classes. This initiative was particularly special because the school is predominantly bilingual, with many Spanish-speaking students. Our refuge has identified this school as a key community partner, and this program was a step toward fostering that relationship. Seeing the excitement on the students' faces as they learned through interactive games and stories was incredibly rewarding and reinforced the importance of connecting with diverse audiences through environmental education. I also had the opportunity to represent the refuge at a university booth to promote a new position, sharing our mission and encouraging others to join our team. In the spirit of the holiday season, I read a Christmas story at the local library, bringing some holiday cheer while sharing stories about wildlife.

As the year wraps up, we’ve been busy celebrating accomplishments and preparing for what’s ahead. I helped with our annual open house, where we welcomed volunteers, partners, and local agency staff. It was a great occasion to reflect on our collective achievements and express gratitude for their support. In preparation for the new year, I’ve been involved in numerous staff meetings to organize our environmental education and interpretative programs. This planning phase is crucial for ensuring our programs continue to engage, educate, and inspire the community. It’s been a fulfilling and busy time, and I’m excited for the opportunities ahead.