Isn’t it funny how nature doesn’t usually like picky eaters? Most animals, except for humans, usually go for the easier, nearby meal instead of the more delicious snack that takes a bit of effort to get. It makes perfect sense when survival is on the line; favorite foods often take a backseat to the more accessible, even if less tasty, options.

HUH!

But guess what? Some new research suggests that at least one species, the fabulous squirrel, is willing to put in the extra effort if it means getting a taste of their favorite dish. In a study recently published in the journal Animal Behavior, researchers at the University of Exeter in the United Kingdom, where my squirrel cousins bark with an accent, explained that wild gray squirrels will often ignore the food in front of them and climb to reach a highly favored alternative.

“This suggests that in natural decision-making scenarios, it may sometimes be beneficial for animals to wait or work harder for a better outcome,” explained study...

Squirrels' harmony with nature encourages you to connect with the natural world, find inner peace, and recognize everyone’s interconnectedness.

Have you ever noticed how squirrels often hang out with each other? We really show how important it is to be aware of your surroundings and work together. Just like we depend on our community, you can do best when you support each other. Building strong relationships takes empathy, understanding, compassion, and a lot of effort.

Squirrels teach that even small things, like sharing food or giving advice, can make your group stronger and happier. If you ever feel alone, squirrels are a great reminder to reach out and make connections that are good for everyone.



Watch out for that dog!


Using these lessons in your everyday lives can make your relationships better, both with people at home, your community and at work. Being aware of what others need helps you talk better and build trust. The squirrels remind you that being part of a community isn’t just...

Here are some traits of a resourceful squirrel:

• Agility: Our quick movements and knack for navigating tricky places remind us to stay agile and ready to react.

• Adaptable: We do well in different settings, showing how important it is to adjust to new situations.

• Resilience: We keep going strong even when faced with predators and tough weather, highlighting our ability to bounce back from challenges.

 

This shows how we’re clever and can change when needed, making the most of what we have. As opportunistic foragers, we grab whatever food we can find. Being adaptable is super important for managing resources because it lets us do well in different places. For instance, squirrels in the city have learned to use things like bird feeders and garbage bins for food. Ever see one of us munching on lettuce from a trash bin?

This shows how important it is to be flexible and creative when we’re looking for food. In our lives, be...

Squirrels embody abundance and prosperity by managing resources mindfully and appreciating what they have.

Let’s embrace the abundance that’s all around us by recognizing that all our lives are already rich with prosperity, even when it might not seem that way.

Look into my eyes, or at any squirrel you spot in the park or woods. You’ll see that true abundance isn’t about what we have, but how we use what we have.

Abundance comes in many forms.


It’s also time to really focus on sufficiency, not scarcity!

By making mindful choices about money or time, you can break free from the cycle of not having enough and, more importantly, develop a deeper sense of gratitude for what you already have, just like my squirrel family does. 

The way we do this is so simple, but it often gets lost on you because, well, humans tend to make things more complicated than they need to be. We know this because it’s what you learned and became accustomed to.

How squirrels do this and we hope you’ll do the same:

- Fi...

We understand that it’s easy to feel stuck in a loop of worry and uncertainty, especially when your mind is constantly racing with “what-ifs” and concerns about the future.

It’s quite amusing watching hamsters zoom around on those silly wheels! It’s like you all do this in your own heads. Very sad.

We’ve got a different approach for you. We didn't let fear stop us from preparing our food for the winter. What changes are you planning to make this spring?

We’re always excited to leap into the unknown, embracing the great wide open! Are you feeling ready to make a big move in your life?

Huxley in his younger & wilder days 

Embrace our fearless spirit! By letting go of fear and doubt, you’ll discover a world of new possibilities and experiences waiting for you.

These are some things you can do to embrace trust and surrender:

• Observe how squirrels navigate uncertainty with confidence.

• Recognize that fear and doubt can hinder personal growth.

• Practice letting

  ...

This is the first of many posts from Huxley, a member of the family Sciuridae, who lives a long and abundant life. You’ll see more ‘squirrel-isms’ in the weeks ahead. Huxley’s backstory is included at the bottom of each post. Comments and acorns are appreciated!

Squirrels symbolize mindfulness, reminding us to focus on the present moment and let go of anxiety and worry.

One of my favorite people in all the world said this:

“Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”

― Mother Theresa

Have you ever noticed how some folks seem to dwell on their past mistakes endlessly? Maybe it’s someone you’re close to, like when they’re staring at their reflection?

Or what about those who worry about things that haven’t happened yet? They seem to carry their sadness into the future, pushing their troubles onto tomorrow.

GAAAAHHHHH!

Life can be tough, isn’t it? Have...