fresh air

I really dislike being cold. A lovely evening (Or morning. Or afternoon.) for me is spent reading in my big chair, wearing fleece, wrapped in fleece blankets, snuggled up with various cats and a hot water bottle, sipping a mug of steaming tea. Having the space heater chugging way nearby is entirely optional, but still a nice touch. Venturing outside and into below freezing temperatures (24°F!) is an event for me, but I've been having a bad case of cabin fever, feeling all cooped up - sluggish and stuffy.

So we decided to pay a visit to the Metroparks for a brisk walk. We go to the park frequently during the other seasons of the year and it's usually filled with people busily pursuing their own activities - biking, hiking, and the like.

The park in the winter is almost deserted. It is so quiet - the whole world seems to be asleep and dreaming of spring.

(Sunset Pond)

Crunching our way through the woods, I marveled at the stark bare-boned trees. Without the cover of leaves, they are all contrast and architecture against the white of the snow. Mike led us to the falls and...oh! The icicles!

(Buttermilk Falls)

So much surprising beauty, out there in the ice. I'm planning another walk soon. I've heard of a secret place in the woods where the wild birds will sit in your hand and that there's even a castle to explore! Winter magic!