No doubt the person with the paint had good intentions when offering this little piece of advice; but the wooden rail of the little bridge at the narrow end of Northmoreland Lake, chipping paint and all, looked better without it. Graffiti aside, I welcomed the view. Spring-like weather in the middle of February prompted my visit with Gracie, and many others had the same idea. All ages of humans and dogs walked the lakeside loop trail except for the forested portion, which was closed to correct water issues. We turned and went back the opposite way when we met the signs. It felt good to be outdoors unhurried, simply enjoying a taste of spring.
With the water’s surface still about 90% frozen, I saw no ducks or geese; but it won't be long before those much anticipated migrants return. I long for emerald green flashes of mallards’ heads and fluffy ducklings dutifully following watchful parents. In a month or two I may see a Tundra Swan stop by on its journey further north. There’s always hope!
With my head full of spring things, I almost forgot about the snowstorm just two days ago.
