We returned to Elliot Lake two weeks ago and the hottest topic of conversation on everyone's lips was this past winter. Long time residents said they'd never seen such a cold, long and brutal winter.
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| Depot Lake |
The snow began in November and did not end until April. The total accumulation of 12' of snowfall (compared to the normal 9') would have been bad enough, but three or four ice storms added to the mix made the 2018/2019 winter a challenge for even the hardiest Canuck.
As you might imagine, I'm grateful all that snow has melted, but daytime temperatures are still low and most evenings we've had the heat on. Even tonight there is a frost warning. Brr! Enough already!
Just the same, John has managed to go kayaking five times and the new dock (built fall 2018) on Elliot Lake along with the numerous benches make for a perfect place to sit and enjoy the great outdoors.
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| Elliot Lake falls |
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| Elliot Lake rock cliff |
This past Sunday we drove north of town to check out the water level on the Little White River - another favourite kayaking destination for John.
The water level was high and the current quite swift. Given the cool temperatures, John didn't seem overly eager to give it a go. On the other hand, his kayak was back in Elliot Lake, so the lack thereof likely had far more to do with it than anything else!
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| Little White River looking north from the suspension bridge |
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| Little White River looking south |
There is one spot on the drive back to Elliot Lake that never ceases to impress me. I love this vista of Flack Lake.
Meanwhile, back in town our backyard gazebo is a peaceful, tranquil and more importantly bug-free retreat. We've enjoyed a few sunny afternoons there so far and look forward to many more this summer and fall.
A sure sign that spring has arrived is the array of flowers and it was a treat to pick these forget-me-nots in our backyard. They're a perfect addition to the lovely vase handmade by my daughter.
One great thing about the north is the people and we've had a blast reconnecting with friends during the past fourteen days. Thanks everyone for your hospitality, friendship, wine and of course, laughs. It's super to be back home.
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