White Out!

If you’re living in Newfoundland right now and look out your window chances are pretty good that all you can see is white. Snow and ice blanket the landscape, it feels like we will never touch grass again. I know that’s how I feel! I’ve heard many people say that this is an old fashioned winter, like ones they experienced when they were young. In fact it was just the other night I was on the phone with mom and of course we were talking about all the snow. She was telling me about when she was young they’d walk to school “out the river” most days except when it was stormy. On days when there was too much snow to walk she’d get to ride school with her cousin Alice on her family’s horse and sleigh. She recalled getting in the sleigh and she and would sit side by side with Alice. They’d be covered by a big cozy blanket and Alice’s dad would bring them to school and bring them home afterwards. Sounds like a Norman Rockwell painting to me!

The last number of years we have become accustomed to less snowfall throughout the winter than what we traditionally had. The smaller snowfall totals were a break for our backs and that was something to be thankful for. Less snow, however, meant less water in the ponds, lakes, reservoirs and in the ground itself. The consequences of little to no snow have widespread impacts on each and every one of us. The latest reminder was the summer of 2025 and the wildfires that took place in and around the province. Dry conditions and hot sunny days practically made the entire island a tinderbox. It was a difficult time for many residents and one we certainly don’t want to repeat in 2026 or ever.

Having said that, looking at all the snow can be rather depressing. We long to get away from the snow and bask in the warmth of sandy beaches and sunshine. What if I told you that summer is just around the corner? Don’t believe me? Just keep scrolling and you will see what I mean. I will transport you to warm summer days where you can imagine a gentle breeze blowing and birds singing in the trees. You can practically smell the flowers and hear the waves lapping on the beach.

One of my favorite things to do in summer is to try and find tiny creatures that are interesting and I snap photos of them. It requires much patience but the end result usually pays off!

Flowers, whether found in your garden or naturally growing on the side of the road are always a pleasure to see. Their colours are so vibrant and there’s such a wide variety it’s hard not to love them. Even on cool or cloudy days you can drop by a nursery and walk through the greenhouses. The warmth and beauty is sure to brighten the gloomiest day.

These next group of flower photos were taken at Holland Nurseries in St. John’s, NL. There are so many beautiful things to see there. On this particular visit I was clearly focused on the daisies and dahlias with a few lilies thrown in for good measure.

Who doesn’t love a cute animal pic? The first photo is a snap of our neighbors’ dog Watson. He’s tiny but feisty! Some of the other animals in this group look like they’re ready for fun and games, especially the squirrel who “stole” a can of Vizzy from our campsite deck and decided to see that all the buzz was about. 😉

Summer forges on with some amazing sunsets and stunning cloud formations. I can’t resist a good sky photo op.

I’m so glad I didn’t inherit my mother’s fear of thunder and lightning. It’s one of the most fascinating weather phenomena there is. These are ‘still’ photos from a video I took during a lightning storm. Not often do we get to see lightning like this as it usually happens behind a very clouded sky in our neck of the woods. Also, it’s usually pouring rain.

When we think of summertime we imagine warm breezes, sunny days and nature in full bloom. Summer is a relaxing time for many. It can be an opportunity to gather with friends and family for parties, barbecues or just chilling on the deck soaking up the rays. (Don’t forget your sunscreen!) Regardless of the summer activity you long for the most, just remember that in a few short months you’ll be able to do it. If at any time you’re starting to feel the winter drain and strain just revisit this blog and check out my snaps which will surely spark joy in you. Or, take a look at your own camera roll on your phone. If you’re anything like me you likely have hundreds of pictures from way back when. Check out the cool things you might’ve done last summer. That may hold you over for the time being until the real thing comes along.

Until Next Time!

Andrea