There’s been a lot of excitement around Common Roots Brewing lately but a story you probably missed is that we found a little hatchling turtle a few days after our fire a few months back. We were walking around the parking lot of what was to become our new temporary space. As we walked the lot, I spotted what turned out to be a very tiny, painted turtle on the ground.
I’m not a biologist, but seemed strange to see an obviously newly hatched turtle in a parking lot a good quarter mile from the nearest water on such a cold, raw day! The temperature was cold and we still had snow mounds in the shaded areas next to the building. Without really thinking about it, I picked up the turtle for a closer look and saw he/she was miraculously still alive! I placed him in my pocket for warmth and brought him home. After a quick Google investigation of what to do next, we decided to set up a hatchling turtle sanctuary in our kitchen and name our new household guest, “Sparky.”
We are happy to report that these efforts have not gone in vain. Sparky continues to thrive in his temporary space in our kitchen. Our plan is to release him when the weather is warmer, although that may be more difficult then we think since we’ve grown somewhat attached to him.
And really, what are the chances of finding a baby turtle in the parking lot on a cold March day?
On that note, I am sure a lot of us are wondering why things happen. Sometimes, it seems, they just do and we all have an opportunity to help or ignore.
All of us at Common Roots have been wondering a similar question—the fire and now this unbelievable outpouring of love and support—how did this happen?
I can tell you we don’t have the answers but we are all so grateful for the tremendous show of love and support. Our community has adopted us and, like young Sparky, we know we will now thrive because of it. Thank you!
Cheers to Sparky and an even brighter future.
Bert
