Saturday, November 9, 2024

The Seasons Are Changing!

Today I want to acknowledge the changing seasons, for they've changed suddenly and significantly for me.  I can't quite believe it but I've made it all the way through October and into November while still going out to ride downtown.  We were still getting days of 20°C right to the end of October!  Most trees are now leafless and it's now cold!  It's November! 

The only trees out back that still have leaves are the Norway Maples, here on the left and right.  I'm not fond of Norway Maples, since they're non-native, but here they're better than the White Ash which were all infected with Emerald Ash borer.  And those are my weights, lest you think I'm doing nothing while sitting in front of our living room window every morning.

Our crane-like snow stick is finally uncovered, after being buried among the hostas all summer long.  Those dark green hellebore leaves were also out-of-sight beneath the spreading hosta leaves, but now they're out collecting sunlight again for the blooms that will appear early next spring. 

The lower temperatures - it's now down to about 8-10°C - mean that I'm putting on my warm jacket and hat, and wearing gloves when I ride downtown, a little over a kilometre away.  Wind direction makes a big difference.  Yesterday I rode downtown and felt almost warm, but when I started homeward I immediately realized there was a strong westerly breeze blowing!

Monday is Remembrance Day here and we remember our own son who died as a forest fire fighter when his water bomber went down in northern Alberta





10 comments:

  1. I will also remember your son who was a first responder. Fire fighters are an incredibly brave bunch. So glad to see your weights. I'm going to begin doing some strength training this week too. Whew! Something to look forward to, I guess.

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  2. It is so sad to lose a child. I am sorry for your loss. You must be awfully proud of him for his work.
    I was thinking about you and the weather. I am happy you've been free to rattle about town.
    My hospice client needs a walker, cannot see (i.e., therefore knit), or read. It really is tough.
    Take care! I enjoy your forays.

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  3. I remember your son William who died while fighting a fire, such a sad time for you and Mrs FG. Remember the happy times and be comforted knowing that William died doing what he loved. The water bomber pilots are heros!

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  4. You're right the wind makes a big difference when it's chilly out.
    I too remember your William.

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  5. Yes, the wind can make a huge difference when you are out and about.

    Here in the UK it is Remembrance with a special day tomorrow (Sunday) at the Cenotaph and around the country. We will remember all those who lost their lives.
    Special thoughts to you and Mrs FG on the loss of William.

    All the best Jan

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  6. I will remember your son tomorrow too, FG. Take care.

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  7. Thinking of your loss, and mine as well. It's a fitting way to feel the moment, eh?

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  8. I will remember your son and my two uncles who served in WWII. While they came home, both were seriously impacted by the war.
    Stay warm, it's definitely getting colder out there.

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  9. Monday's Remembrance Day is a sad day and today's weather is reflecting it. Keep the happy memories of your son in your heart.

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  10. With your weights on the window sill and the partial window frame in the picture, it makes your photo look like a painting. A truly sad and personal remembrance for you both tomorrow.

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