The most exciting siting I had this week was a visit from a raccoon (Procyon lotor) after dinner on Thanksgiving Day. Here it is, helping itself to some cat food left out for the strays outside the folks house. From now on, I will no longer make fun of grainy Bigfoot photos - its hard to get clear shots under low light conditions.
We had a pleasant turkey dinner on Thursday. The weather outside was very damp and bitter cold including light hail, snow and lots of rain. So I spent the day inside with family - our biggest crowd yet due to the addition of a few cousins this year.
Friday and Saturday were equally cold around 40 degrees with passing sun and clouds. Saturday in particular was very windy, so I spent the majority of the day in movie theaters taking in the latest hits.
On Sunday, with a high temperature of 50 degrees, I finally ventured out for short walk. Normally I look forward to many long walks during a holiday weekend, but with my latest case of the sniffles is hanging on, I just didn't want to push my luck.
The pictures above are along a bike path in some preserved green space. Many, many woodland critters make their home there and appear along the path from time to time.
A flat, low lying area the path circles was probably created for drainage. Local kids like to ride their dirt bikes and other toys around in there.
Several trails run into this area. I can't wait to walk this same path when the ground is covered under thick snow.
Everywhere it is obvious that winter is coming. A last few leaves that are still turning to fall colors provide splashes of color.
A small stream runs under the path.
I regret that I do not get out here more often now that I return home after dark. In the summer, I can enjoy this stretch of woods everyday if I choose.
As I walked along, the light from the setting sun was blocked by clouds until...
...a golden light threw shadows out behind the trees for a few minutes.
While I cannot hope for more mild weather, I am looking forward to winter precipitation which always makes winter scenery look pretty. The winter is quickly drawing to a close, and it looks like I will make my 52 post goal for the year. Stay warm!
