We are nearing the end of January and limping toward February – the longest short month of the year. Today, the sun is shining and we’re used to temperatures in the -20º or worse range. Depending on if there’s any amount of wind and the direction of origin – it’s a manageable temperature for a short walk – or it’s unbearably cold and the fireplace calls.
Out in our side yard, hungry Blue Jays are foraging for some of the seeds scattered there for their benefit. Meanwhile, a handsome Cardinal is perching on a tree branch, waiting for his opportunity to get in on the feast.
One of the many Chickadees that are part of the neighbour ‘gang’ decided to grab some suet while waiting for a chance to check out the banquet on the ground.
A wee little brown sparrow(?) is patiently waiting for his (or her) turn at the suet, standing on the railing to the deck.
Other than obvious ones, I’ve never been particulary good at identifying birds, but it doesn’t really matter to me. I just enjoy watching them, listening to their songs, and, by providing some food, helping to stave off the winter’s worst of the cold for them.
When the wind is still, it’s good to get out and get some fresh air while walking in the woods – as long as the snow isn’t too deep.
Due to a currently bum knee, I need to be careful where I step so as not to wrench it at all.
It’s bad enough hobbling when standing up after sitting for a while, but I don’t want that gait to become my normal mode of travel. Despite the cold, with little to no wind, the sun has strength and warmth on my face – and it does help to lift one out of the winter doldrums, even if only for a little while.
Our town is known for its many hours of sunshine year ’round, and that is particularly important during winter. I couldn’t imagine living in a place where it was dark, gloomy and rainy all winter. Even though places like that would be warmer, it would be damp and chilly. I’ll take the cold, crisp air and sunshine any day!
Everywhere you turn on television or social media, the stories and news items are grim, filled with ominous foreboding tied to the political scene in the USA. It can overwhelm you, and I’ve found that the best way to cope is to turn everything off, grab my camera, and head out in search of Mother Nature’s bounty.
If you can get out – enjoy it. I’m sure that skiers in our area are delighted that we’ve had a couple of decent snow falls this winter in contrast to prior years where there was little to none.
Time to bundle up and head out! Have a wonderful day.
The red seed pods on a Sumac standout against the snow and bright blue January morning sky!
Capturing Cherished Memories 
Absolutely love these. We finally have a decent amount of snow to snow shoe and maybe see some of these.
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