A Winter Wonderland

People are always excited to get away from the frozen land that we endure for months on end to a warm and sunny destination.  Summer clothes are washed and packed, sunscreen is located from the back of cupboards, bug spray rounded up and off we go with e-tickets and passports in hand.  The get away is always enjoyed and reminisced about for months on end.  But living in a northern climate has its wonders that no one can deny.

Our four seasons brings nature alive to its grandest and finest glory.  My mother, who was an artist, taught me to appreciate the colours of mother nature.  She pointed out the June green which has become an all time favourite for me. Every June, during the last two weeks, the foliage on the trees and bushes is a marvelous green.  It is a light, fresh, beaming hue.  This shade is short lived and eventually succumbs to the heavy dry green of July and August and gives way to golden colours of September.  

Autumn radiates golds, and oranges, and reds that bring a sense of calm to every cell of your body.  There is nothing like getting on your bike on a warm autumn day, the sun shining brilliantly, with only a slight breeze and heading down the road knowing the last days of an Indian summer are slipping away and allowing a pathway for a colder era to take control. 

Winter... talked and complained about endlessly.  It sends us scampering to the inner sanctity of our warm homes.  The brave ones head out to outdoor rinks and play hockey until the witching hour(at least our two kids did).  Others jump on their sleds and and carve up the fields enjoying a fresh new snow fall.  Many dust off their skis and head to a variety of slopes.  Nevertheless, it is a brilliant time of the year that makes you reach for your sunglasses faster than a sunny July morning.

Yes, we will be heading for warmer climates, getting away from the grip of winter.  And yes, I do appreciate to climate we live in.  The change of seasons, brings out the glories of nature.  This past week has sent many  Saskatchewan folk grabbing their cameras to capture the winter wonderland  that was brought before our eyes.  Those that live in a southern climate miss out on the changing seasons and can only appreciate it through visual displays in books, TV and internet.  The pictures don't capture the scent of lilac bushes, the crunch of snow, or the chill on the cheeks. Only us hardy northerners have the privilege of these delights!