Ice on the Water ~

 This year it seemed like winter arrived all at once.  I was enjoying fall, moderate temperatures & still plenty of time outside.  Our first snow was November 29th.  We've had earlier snow, that's for sure, but the change to cold - still seemed sudden.  It had been just over three weeks since I'd been out.  With today's forecast close to 50, it was time for a ride.

12:37 p.m. On the trail~

It was noon when I dropped Finn off to visit Doris.  My plan was to be on the trail during the warmest time of our short days.  There were no cars at my usual parking spot & almost no one at the park.

Road crew working northbound I-29

On my way out the trail to the I-29 underpass, I came around a corner just before the train underpass & spooked a six-point buck!  He was standing on the trail eating through the chain link fence that runs alongside the railway tracks.  He jumped straight up, before turning & crossing in front of me. 

I turned around just shy of the Interstate on my way back to the park.  I'd just gone through the last tunnel - when this time - I spooked three does!  They were eating plants on the far side of the chain link in about the same spot.  They took off across the trail in front of me.  I looked but couldn't see any plants that were different enough to draw so much interest.  They were surrounded by harvested fields with plenty of fodder!

Possum~

Making my usual circuit through the old campground, this big possum was out in the middle of one of the open fields.  He was totally unconcerned about my presence.  

Along Indian Creek~

There was still snow on the ground in several places.  I rode into the wind heading south along the creek.  It was such a beautiful afternoon.

Frozen snow & footprints~

When I finished my loop around the lake, I passed the Bronco & turned down the trail to my usual spot on the lakeshore.  Here, with all the shade from the trees, the snow was covering the trail.  Footprints were frozen into the snow & had iced over.  I walked the bike through this section.

At the shore~

My reward is the above view.  I think the lake is more beautiful in the winter, frozen over, than in the summer months when the water is clear.  High clouds had moved in from the west & with them the temperature dropped about 5 degrees.

2:37 p.m. The sun is already starting to set~

It didn't take long to feel the chill.  I started back.  It's amazing how quickly the sun sets this time of year.  The winter solstice can't come soon enough. I returned to the Bronco & left for home.  Finn & Doris had spent the afternoon out in the sunshine too.  

5:17 p.m. The sun has set~

At home, it was already getting dark & the lights had come on.  The last shades of pink looked so pretty against the blue/gray sky.  This time of year, I appreciate those rare warmer days more than ever, even though we could sure use moisture. Butch is due home soon & the weather forecast is for a Christmas day in the 50's!  Since he has jury duty the last of the month, we'll be enjoying his extended time at home!