The weather has given us a variety of wet, frosty and snowy days over the past couple of weeks.  Two days of pouring rain that melted the first big snowfall, turned to snow last weekend.  A foot of fluffy white stuff fell; creating a beautiful blanket over the yard.

The forecast at that time was for three days of 'flurries' later in the week.  Instead, there were a

couple of very frosty nights.  The hoar frost on the branches in the morning was spectacular.  As I drove in to work, the light from the headlamps caught the crystals and the trees glistened.  I had my own 'twinkle lights' to look at.

The flurries that were supposed to happen, turned into another foot of snow.  The snowbanks on either side of my driveway are now as high as they usually would be mid-winter. 

It looks beautiful outside.  The evergreen branches are laden with snow.  The fence posts are wearing little white caps.  It looks peaceful and serene.  The bird feeders are getting a work out.  I'm filling them every couple of days.

The temperature has dipped to a low of -25C overnight.  This isn't a new phenomenon.  It happens every year yet I hear the same complaining.  "It's cold."  Well, yes it is but this is winter in Alberta.  It happens every year so one would think to prepare for it.  

I would imagine it would be cold when instead of wearing a jacket made for the -20s; a light autumn jacket is being worn.  There were others this week wearing fashion boots with spike heels and no lining to keep feet warm.  I hate to break it to those fashionistas, but yes, your feet are going to get cold and yes, you are going to slip on the ice and snow.

The winter weather is more enjoyable if you are comfortable.  It does mean having to wear the gear; a good hat that covers the head and ears, a scarf, mittens instead of gloves, an insulated jacket, snow pants and boots that are actually made for ice and snow.  One is not set for the fashion runway with all of this on, but you will be warm.  I'm not saying that you will become a winter lover but you will be more comfortable and safe.

I'm looking forward to enjoying that snow later this week.  The -20C temperatures don't bother me but the weather man seems to see a warmer trend as the weekend approaches.  I'm hoping to get the skis and the snowshoes out for some winter fun.

 It is the life of the crystal, the architect of the flake, the fire of the frost, the soul of the sunbeam. This crisp winter air is full of it. ~John Burroughs, "Winter Sunshine"