It’s the first week of December and only now does it finally feel like a prairie winter.  Sure, we had a bit of a snowfall back in October but we’ve been super lucky with the weather this year.  When I was a kid, Halloween was when the snow and cold came and stayed.  Now, things are a bit milder.  This year, the weather at end of October and into November was actually in the pluses.  And I took advantage of that!

I know I’m a little late with this post, but it’s hard not to reminisce about warm weather when it’s -20C outside.  On November 6th, I went to Pike Lake for what would be my last paddle of the season.  And it was lovely.  One of those clear afternoons that was warm enough to be outside, but cool enough that you can do something without cooking yourself.

 

And because of the early cold snap that we had in fall, a lot of the reeds and other water plants had been killed off.  I got to see the lake in a whole new way.  I even found a little nook that I’d never seen before because of all the plant life that’s normally there.  To be honest, it was a little scary and disorienting.  Viva la GPS!  Overall, it was a great experience though.  I’m hoping to be able to start taking short trips on the river next year and getting over that uncomfortable feeling of not knowing exactly where you are when paddling  will be essential.  Of course, I never get tired of the quiet.  The sound of nature and the flick of my paddle is so calming.  I can’t wait until next year!

In the meantime, I’m eagerly awaiting the start of the snowshoeing season!