First day it was warm enough to take the old dog on a longish hike, so we went to the Palmerston Range, Adirondack outliers cut through by the southern branch of the Hudson River. Actually, we went out a couple of days before, too, but it was positively Antarctic on the exposed shoulder near the top and the trail was drifted over, and it was not so much fun. Saw a female pileated woodpecker and a barred owl (last week I saw a snowy owl while I was snowshoeing in the ravine behind NC HQ — you can see I am working hard on something or other, right?). We also scared up a flock of turkeys, exploding out of the treetops as we came down from the ridge. This about cured my SAD for this year.
dg
Dog of the North
Looking down to the Hudson River where we started
Climbing
Crossing the ridge
A little birch grove
Barred owl (okay, I am not a photographer; it was far away)
Beautiful photos, Doug. Wow – those last two of the trees’ shadows on the snow – stunning! (and, of course, the dog, who looks so happy out romping around with you….)
Thanks, Julie. Ah, the dog. She’s turning ancient. Maybe not another winter. I can’t imagine being in the woods without her.
The Dog of the North is amazingly fit for an oldish gentleman/lady (?). This made me laugh, as I call my 82 year old mother every day or two and regularly remind her of her doctor’s instructions that she limit her walks to days when the temp is between 40 and 80 degrees F. I suspect she sneaks out on occasion, however… Getting older is no picnic!
She is quite proud of her multi-pocket vest, safari hat, and combination walking stick/portable chair. Can’t wait to see her soon.
Hope to see the lovely Adirondacks some day as well!
Best regards,
M.A. Murphy
Washington, DC
Maureen, That’s exactly it. She’s turning into a little old gentle lady but still happy to be outside when the temperature is right. 🙂