Family Fun at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science
Perot Museum of Nature and Science
By Mina Frannea
Every time we drive by the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, I’m intrigued by the design and the building’s textured look. Coupled with the cool looking enclosed escalator on the outside of the building, the overall effect is really interesting and unusual.
We recently got a chance to visit the Perot. Up close, the building is an architectural treat!
There is so much to see and do at the Perot. Multi-level exhibits offer a chance to learn about animals, our planet, our bodies, technology, science, engineering and so much more. Those of you who visited the old Museum of Nature and Science may recall that it was split into two buildings. The new museum combines everything into one building that is convenient and easy to navigate. There’s also a children’s museum on the lower level for little ones.
How we React to Seasonal Change
Festivals of Lights: Finding Health in the Darkness
by Bethlyn Gerard
December in the Northern Hemisphere has days that grow increasingly shorter. Nights fall earlier. Ever heard the Simon and Garfunkle lyric, ‘hello darkness my old friend, I’ve come to talk with you again…’? We are in the darkest time of year. Species react differently to this seasonal change. Birds fly south, bears hibernate, humans often decorate. Several major religions include stories involving light during this darkest of months. A lamp burns without oil for 8 days, a star shining in the East gives guidance, candles and fires (replaced in modern ceremonies by electric lights) teach us to respect the relationship between light and darkness.
The winter solstice marks the day when the amount of daylight is equal to the length of night. Until then, the amount of darkness increases. This year that day is December 21, 2012. After that, the days gradually get longer letting in more light.