Winter Staycation

As Canadians, we aren’t new to the idea of going away to somewhere warm in the winter. Many retirees go South, ending up in Florida or Arizona, avoiding the cold and snow shoveling. They have adopted the moniker of Snowbirds. This is where my (Julie) parents are and their lovely lakeside home seems to have become a getaway for family members in the meantime. I’m here for a week, a much needed holiday, but Wendy came for the weekend as we made the most of a winter staycation.

As lovely as sitting on a sunny beach sounds, neither one of us could afford it this year so a winter staycation was our only option. Not a bad option if you’re willing to make the best of it. Without any real expectations, we packed up our vehicles with snowshoes, skates, bathing suits, fuzzy slippers, cozy sweaters, steaks, wine and perhaps a couple other alcoholic beverages. Even though, Mother Nature decided to grace us with a furry of snow and wind the morning of our departure, Wendy reminded me that we were on holiday and in no hurry. So, when we left, the sun had come out and the drive North was smooth sailing and beautiful. Our arrival view was stunning as the snow glistened across the lake.

The weekend didn’t quite go as planned. I say planned but it was more expectation of what we would have liked to have done. So, we didn’t make it out skating because the winds picked up again and the blowing snow would have made it unpleasant. Whatever! At this age, we try not to stress over the little things. With a fire burning in the hearth and the view of the fish huts and snowmobiles riding across the lake, we enjoyed each others company and contemplated our next move.

Girls night! Maybe a first for this place. I’d messaged the girls in my family to keep their Saturday night open. Nothing fancy, just some nibbles, drinks and UNO Flip! Wendy and I had played some of the games in the “Game Chest” the previous night, including Candyland and Trouble but this version of UNO was so much fun. Definitely a must for your game chest.

The next morning, Wendy’s last day, had much more agreeable weather so we finally made it out snowshoeing and then hopped into the sauna to warm ourselves. That was quite the sight, especially when Wendy decided to do a snow drop in her bikini. She hadn’t really thought it out. Falling into the snow is the easy part but trying to get up quickly in 2 feet of soft snow… well, that was a sight to see. I was taking the picture so I couldn’t really help. If you look close up at her face, you’ll see how she may have been second guessing her choice.

The walk back to the house was something. Putting clothes back on after a hot sauna is nearly impossible so with boots and jacket on and clothes bundled in our arms, we trudged back to the house. I’m sure if the neighbours could see, they’d be shaking their heads. Another hot cup of coffee and some lunch and Wendy packed up her things, ready to head back home.

And for the first time in two years, I’m alone. No pets. No people. It’s heaven! I know a lot of people say they don’t like winter but I think it’s all in the mindset. If you’re well dressed for the cold, there’s much beauty to be found and tons of activities to try. On that note, I’m heading out for another snowshoe jaunt. What are you doing to enjoy winter?

Lots of love,

Julie