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Here we go again – a January thaw. I really enjoy winter weather with its deep white snow out in the woods, unsullied by cars and civilization’s inevitable dirt. But I actually missed this time last year when the weather warms up, the skies brighten, and the snow all but melts away. The squirrels come out of their nests, my feeders are filled with birds who begin to sing and chatter rather than just eating to survive and I begin to wonder if spring will come early this year.
So for a few days, the cross country skis rest in the garage and the snowshoes hang patiently on the wall and I take a day or so to enjoy a respite from the one part of winter I do not like – driving on ice and snow. I walk, or slog, in the woods near my home and get a chance to see how all my woodland friends are fairing, and look fruitlessly for signs of spring growth in the sheltered areas – always the optimist – or foolish dreamer! However, the thaw is just a teaser and hopefully we will return to a second round of snow.
Lu Blanchard is semi-retired and spends free time with family, reading, dancing, singing and enjoying outdoor activities.
Dianna Morris lives in Marcy and fell in love with the woods as a young girl. She is currently attempting to climb all the 46 ADK High Peaks - only 28 more to go.
Harold Pier taught chemistry at Utica College for 40 years and was an avid biker, hiker and skiier after retiring in 2000. He contributed to this blog from its inception in March 2012 until his death in October 2012.
