Our youngest child, Emily, usually issues a "thanks, but no thanks" when we suggest a walk in the woods. Her interests tend more toward enclosed spaces for her perambulations --such as the shopping mall. So we were pleasantly surprised when she suggested a walk at Second Marsh yesterday and astonished when she coaxed us to do the five kilometre route.
It was an excellent outing on a day that was a gift from God. A strong breeze stirred up waves on Lake Ontario but it was still shirt-sleeve weather because of the balmy temperatures. There were a couple of egrets in the marsh, the first time we have seen these unusual visitors to our area. On the return trip there is a spot where the chickadees have learned collectively to eat out of the hands of humans. Emily's sister, Jocelyn, has done this on a number of occasions but for Emily this was a source of new-found delight.
It was an excellent outing on a day that was a gift from God. A strong breeze stirred up waves on Lake Ontario but it was still shirt-sleeve weather because of the balmy temperatures. There were a couple of egrets in the marsh, the first time we have seen these unusual visitors to our area. On the return trip there is a spot where the chickadees have learned collectively to eat out of the hands of humans. Emily's sister, Jocelyn, has done this on a number of occasions but for Emily this was a source of new-found delight.
This Thanksgiving Weekend I am grateful for the ready access to the spots where I am reminded that it isn't just humans that matter. The state of the world financial markets may dominate the news but I'm pleased to have them fade into the background for an hour or so. The diversity and abundance of the world around us lifts my spirit toward the Creator. I hope there is an opportunity for you to get outside today.
Lovely pictures David. Thanks for sharing them. It has been a beautiful weekend here too and we have enjoyed walks along the waterfront and at a nearby conservation area.As you say, it is good to let the cares and worries of the world recede for a while as we give thanks for the beauty of creation and the joy of fellowship with family and friends.
ReplyDeleteJeff just came in from the outdoors, but unlike where you are, Jeff was wearing a winter jacket, boots, toque and gloves. We got about a half a foot of snow the past couple of days. The boys have had a grand time throwing snowballs, creating snowpeople, and sledding. I think this is my first time in Canada having snow on Thanksgiving.
ReplyDeleteSo, enjoy your balmy temperatures while we shovel.
Just to clarify, I am thankful for the moisture for the earth. It has been very dry here. I am also thankful for the screams of laughter as the boys play in the snow.
ReplyDeleteWow! What vast and diverse country we live in. Shirley lives in Ontario where is it has been unseasonably warm. Deb lives in Saskatchewan, a province which was enjoying warmer weather when we were chilly last week. Now...the kids get to be kids in the snow -- and I am including Jeff.
ReplyDeleteWe were in northern Ontario and as a family (3month old too)took a hike to the top of a hill we have always known as Fire Tower Hill. The view from the top was breathtaking! We could see 4 lakes, including Lake Huron and the colours were absolutely beautiful. It was the first time my sister-in-law from the west has seen such colour, and we all agreed that this year was spectacular! We truly are blessed to live in such a richly "decorated" (by nature) country!
ReplyDeleteWe lived in Northern Ontario for many years and as you know Nancy, I am well aware of your "neck of the woods." We would often go paddling sometime on the Thanksgiving weekend and then climb to get the sort of view you describe. On one outing we were paddling back toward our launching spot when Ruth noticed what she thought was fog moving toward us. It was actually snow coming in off Georgian Bay, so Deb and family were not alone in their experience.
ReplyDeleteWhenever I am in nature, as I was this weekend, I am amazed by the sensation of the world opening wider.
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