Early February. The middle of winter in the Middle of America. Grey and White. This is about the time of year when I start to wonder why I'm not living my life in some small charming beach town. I fantasize about letting my car gather dust while I run my errands on my bike in flip-flops, feeling the warm sun on my shoulders. But you know, I would miss the change of seasons for sure and when the first snow flies, I am just as excited as my kids to dig out the sleds and snow pants. Instead of just putting up with winter, I continue to find my love for it every year. There is something about the fresh crisp air that clears away cobwebs in my head and gets my blood pumping. I am proud that my roots are in Minnesota where people find happiness in the harshest of weather. My memories are of winter days outside, carving out forts in the mounds of plowed snow at the end of our street. Having feeling in our toes and fingers was irrelevant when there were caves to dig out. Never go inside and run your numb hands under hot water!
How could I deprive my children of the joys of winter? Yes, it is true that fresh snow in December is reason for celebration while fresh snow in February is reason to book a trip south. Earlier this week, I could feel my cold-weather appreciation dwindle along with my fellow Ohioans so I grabbed my friend, Melanie, and we headed out for a winter hike to see what nature was up to.
A native of Southern California and new to Ohio, Melanie is experiencing her first winter. She is loving it and so eager to bundle up and explore. I appreciate having a new hiking buddy.
She's a good sport to let me take photos of her. Winter looks great on you, Melanie!
One of my favorite subjects to photograph are pets! Hiking at this particular trail, I know I will encounter fellow walkers with their dogs. Thankfully, I am not a shy person and I have no problem approaching people and striking up a conversation. I do like people, but really I just want to photograph their dog. What I find is, many people are flattered and are happy to oblige. If the vibe is right, I will always offer to take their photos with their dog and email it to them.
This little guy was a gem! How lucky we were to come across this. Content and warm.
The hike was a successful one, as it completely left me feeling uplifted and content. Melanie felt the same and we agreed to go on another hike in two days.
Winter Appreciation Hike #2: Wow! What a difference, we woke to warm temps and the snow was melting fast. The sky was clear and the sunshine was glorious! We grabbed a third buddy, also a California native but has lived in Ohio quite some time. We went to a different lake this time and I showed them a mountain bike trail that I braved last fall.
Angelique! Your name is as stylish as you.
We found a lovely perch to rest. Here's me soaking in some Vitamin D.
Melanie captured this awesome photo below.
Am I really including this dorky photo of myself? Imagine me with a long flowing dress instead of men's snowboarding bibs.
Upon waking up today, I looked outside to see the snow was gone, the wind was howling, and the clouds had taken over. Luckily I got my day in the warm sun and I hear spring is coming early this year. Wish with me for more snow and more hiking! Get outside!
