The 1^st Day of Spring did not disappoint.  WHAT  A DAY!!

Stu and I headed down our trail this morning while everything was still crisp! What a ride. We stopped at a spot, turned off the machines and listened. In addition to the scurrying of the squirrels and the swish from a Grey Jay flying over; we heard the Swans calling. I have not seen them yet but we have had reports of them up by Rainbow Falls and on the Winnipeg River by Otter Falls. A sure sign of spring.

The Otter was out on the River but to far down to get a picture... except for a black mark on the ice. He was fun to watch though. He would run really quickly along the ice and then slide to the next open hole.

This afternoon we headed out to where Krsita, Ken and their friend Riley were fishing. As you can see a lot of lazing in the sun. Not much fishing.

Perfect way to spend the afternoon.

 Trail Conditions:

The Parks Department have done a great job of grooming the Ski trails all winter so they are well set to sustain a few warmer days.

If you are snowmobiling: stick to the trails. There is a bit of slush on the lakes. 

I hope all enjoyed the gorgeous 1^st day of Spring

Monday, we were sitting having supper with a friend and he looked out the window and saw this great gray owl landing in a tree just off of our deck. The next thing we knew it flew down from the tree and landed on our Bird feeder. It stayed there about five minutes looking down into the snow and then looking around to the window at us. Every time we moved we could see it flinch a little but it didn't fly way.

Then all the sudden it flexed its wings and dove down into the snow. The next thing we knew it flew up and into the tree next to the deck again, unsuccessful in its first hunt.

Next thing we knew he was back on the bird feeder; watching.  I stepped out on the deck very slowly, very quietly. He flinched. I thought he was going to take off so I spoke softly assuring it was safe; I wasn't going to hurt her/him and that it was beautiful.
Another five minutes past and then once again it flexed its wings and dove into the snow. This time we couldn't see, as it went behind a snowdrift. All of a sudden the Great Grey’s massive wings spread and it lifted off the snow carry its prey.

What an experience!

I have never been that close to a great grey…. truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

-33 this morning but what a brilliant day. The sun streaming through the trees splashing natures “bar codes” on the river.