In the Okanagan where I live, we own snow shovels, and bags of de-icers or salt for our sidewalks and driveways. Some folks enjoy all seasons; making the most of Mother Nature no matter the temperature,  some dread the cold of winter, while others just appreciate each day as it comes.

winter sunshine

The daylight hours are shorter but there is nothing as refreshing as cold air on the cheeks, and sun sparkling across unbroken snow.

Plus there is the pleasure of a warm mug between the fingers as we sip hot chocolate and melted marshmallows.

Another tradition in many communities including ours is the (insane) Polar Bear plunge. I do not ever intend to indulge in this particular tradition regardless of how “green” New Year’s Day is. However this year the day looked mild, Mother Nature can be deceiving, and so I ventured forth on January 1 to Sunoca Beach which is about 16 km north of Penticton where the hardy fools plunge annually on Janaury 1.

Imagine the scene, cold wind, I was shivering inside my jacket, hat and gloves and all around me stood “children of all ages” in their swimsuits waiting for the sign to run into Okanagan Lake screaming, and then repeat in reverse direction. I joined them around the bonfires, and hope the brave souls had the thickest of robes to dash into and then wrap themselves around aforementioned hot chocolate. The event is supervised and search and rescue are in the water to help any who flounder.

I’m in training for next year, I’m going to put an ice cube in a seasonal refreshment 🙂

Here’s my visual for you!