Another 1.26” of gauge catch this week leaves us with near normal conditions for mid December.  Hiking trails at Douglas Forest and George Washington state park are wet in the usual spots and streams are flowing freely.  Quite a change from a month ago.  Sparrows, chickadees, blue jays and squirrels have been busy foraging for food this week and the mallards and Canadian geese have been enjoying the lake while it is ice free.  George Washington state park has lowered the posted fire danger to Low for the first time since last spring.  With 1.5” of snow on the ground and frigid temperatures predicted for the next few days, it’s looking like a white Christmas this year.  Merry Christmas!