The Squirrels - One-Time Box Purchase

In September 2024, subscribers met the Squirrels.

In Birdmoss, the Squirrels forecast the upcoming seasons. Will winter be long or short, early or late, bitter or balmy? The Squirrels examine the signs held in nutshells, seeds, and turning leaves. The coming winds cannot be controlled, but they can be influenced by ancient ceremonies and offerings. 

This year, the outlook is uncertain. The Squirrels prepare a ritual to take place after the first frost. They will gather at the storehouse, each bringing a token contribution: an acorn, a dried mushroom. Adding them to the community’s stockpile, the Squirrels invoke the clear, brisk Crystal Winter; and ward off the wet and isolating Bitter Winter. Every individual must participate for the best chance of success.

The Squirrels Box includes an abundance of beautiful objects; hints and additions to expand the story; a mysterious document; and a lore card.  

Some items are available for individual purchase.

• Mysterious Document
• An instructional document is augmented with marginalia which will help you interpret clues.  It is available only in the Squirrels Box.

• Lore Card
• The Squirrels are introduced in a full-color collectible 4x6 inch lore card.  The artwork for this month's lore card was created by Joanna Rzepecka, a Warsaw, Poland-based illustrator. She says, "My work is inspired by biodiversity, mainly animals. Through my work, I'm trying to capture moments where nature is untouched by humans. Peaceful scenery, colors, and rough textures are some things that I enjoy the most."

• Plump Squirrel - Hand-Carved Figure
• You step into a hazy late-summer day.  The Squirrels have been busy gathering foodstuffs, but most are now taking a break in the shade.  They doze or pensively chew a few seeds.  One notices you and gracefully leaps to your side.  She has a shimmering russet coat and round haunches, signaling that she’s been preparing her body, mind, and nest for the coming Fall and Winter.

• Walnut-Shell Amulet - Black Walnut Necklace
• The Squirrel offers you a walnut-shell amulet.  Black walnuts are associated with anticipating and preparing for change.  The Squirrels interpret the symmetrical chambers in their shells for hints about the upcoming winter.  Walnuts are known to draw lightning, so they are also used to summon up Summer storms.  You can quicken your shell slice with additional beads, knots, paint, or pens.

• Grain for the Winter - Mini Popcorn Cob
• The proud Squirrels give you a tour of their stockpiles.  They work on them all year.  While they may move between a few different homes, they supply one main storehouse.  Among the late-Summer bounty:  jewel-toned cobs of corn.  The kernels form exquisite lines and patterns on the cob.  The Squirrels are excited about their recent harvest, which features miniature popping kernels.  It is a highly-anticipated autumnal treat.

• Gift from the Hollow Tree - Olive Wood Spoon
• The Hollow Tree recently dropped a limb during a Summer thunderstorm. Every part of her is precious, so the Squirrels gathered up the fallen scraps to make bowls, plates, and spoons.  You are given a wooden spoon.  It is marked by dark ripples.  Use it for serving provisions such as apple butter and preserves.

• Copper Token - Squirrel Coin
• The Squirrels have collected a few copper coins over the years.  They value copper as a powerful conductor.  Perhaps these tiny pennies were dropped by the Crows as they returned from your world.  Your coin can quicken a money bowl or invoke abundance. Additionally, your token can amplify your own ways of knowing.

Photo props are not included.