Intrepid Ruth at Monarch Point Conservation Reserve
Happy New Year!
A couple of days ago we dithered over venturing outside as we'd discussed the evening before. Our Christmas company had departed, we'd had a day or two to recover, so why not go for a ramble? Well, we woke up to overcast skies, cold temperatures, and a brisk wind. Did I mention that it was treacherously icy?
We almost convinced each other to stay home but somehow we found ourselves driving to the south of Prince Edward County and a favourite area at Point Petre, now withing Monarch Point Conservation Reserve.
There were certainly no butterflies on this blustery day but the waves from Lake Ontario crashed in, helter skelter, and we had the shore to ourselves -- surprise, surprise. With warm clothing, cleats, and hiking poles we did just fine and in the end we were grateful we'd gone ahead. We did see some snow buntings as well as hardy ducks bouncing on the surf.
There aren't many times when we go for a paddle, or a cycle, or a ramble when we regret the decision, even when we are buffeted by the elements. It is more often exhilarating than threatening and these moments open us to the wonder of Creation. We understand the ancient notion of "templum" a holy outdoor place of observation and experiencing the sacred. As we age we are grateful that our three adult children, their partners, and our four grandchildren also appreciate time en plein air.
Frosty New Year's Morning 2026
This morning we were out again, on a trail which no one else had trodden at an early hour because they were all likely having fun the night before.This day began with brilliant sunshine, blue sky and dazzling snow.
As we enter 2026 I want to renew the commitment I made when I retired to be a "bewildered outsider" whenever possible. I'll keep in both heart and mind that so many of the really important encounters with the Creator in the Bible, in both testaments, from Genesis to Revelation, took place outdoors. If scripture is witness to Creation and Creator, how can we stay inside?
https://www.ssji.ca/about_south_shore_initiative
Monarch Point Conservation Reserve, formerly Point Petre
3 comments:
Who can stay indoors? Not me! No matter what the weather I always feel more whole once I'm outside under the sky. If humans aren't willing, the dog is always willing. Night walks feel the most awe-some. KB
Ah, spoken like a true Northerner, Kathy! We figured out early when we moved to Sudbury that we needed to get outside in the winter or go stir crazy. Enjoy!
I have to give credit to my dog for getting me outside more in the winter. But there's something peaceful about being out at night, dressed warmly, and the crunching of the snow beneath my boots. Plus, touch wood, our well doesn't go dry(unlike the 8 fill ups we had in our Sahara-like summer). And no ticks! So..on second thought, I'll take more winter.
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