Pauline has really edified myself and all of the children regarding the sacred salmon. She has told riveting tales of their life cycle; how they must spend some time in brackish water for their body to transform from a fish that thrives in fresh water to one who can tolerate salt water. Then, on the return to its spawning grounds, it must reverse the process, again in the brackish water, before swimming upstream to lay/fertilize the eggs and die. She spoke of the harrowing journey over rapids and up waterfalls, how its body is beaten and bruised, how it does not eat at all on the return trip from the ocean and how, weak and starving, it procreates and passes away.
She also taught us about its fins, their names and purposes. The tail is the main form of propulsion, switching from side to side. Only fish's tails move this way. Dolphins, seals and whales' tails move vertically. The salmon's dorsal fins help it to make quick turns, stop and keep itself upright. The pectoral fins are primarily for steering. I am so fortunate to be a Montessori guide. It ensures that I am always learning!
We read a terrific book today called "There's an Opossum in my Backyard" by Gary Bogue. It tells all about the adventures of this backyard marsupial and how it practically becomes a member of the family! One also learns much about the habits of this often disregarded American denizen. Thank you, Barbara and Don Hinds-Cook (library parents,) for selecting it.
Best Regards,
Doni
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