February gives a bit of hope to winter. The daylight hours are getting longer, the sun seems to be out more, and you know if you just get through these four weeks, things will start to warm up.
February 1, 2021
If, like us, you have tried to keep up with the latest recommendations by public health, you probably also have a stockpile of cloth face masks. Ours are hung on a coat rack near the front door and include all sorts of designs.
I’m partial to the design that has an adjustable bead at the back for tightness. My favourites include a cloth print of fish and red/black buffalo plaid. While I look forward to the day that we don’t need to wear them whenever we go out, they do work well in the cold; no more frozen nose hairs!
February 2, 2021
I can’t think of Groundhog Day without thinking of Bill Murray in the movie of the same name. It’s ironic, as the past 9 months has been a repeat of the same day over and over, while in lockdown. Canadian groundhogs seemed to be nearly unanimous in their predictions of an early spring.
I’ve always loved the look of icicles. So simple in their formation; and as a kid, so tasty!
February 3, 2021
We’re finally seeing more sunny days. February often brings cold and clear days, giving hope for spring.
My two hour walk through the forest today was a welcome reprieve of the cabin fever I’ve been feeling these past few weeks.
February 4, 2021
We ventured to the local conservation area again, where the trails have been groomed for skiing. The nice change for this year is that they are allowing people to walk the trails, as long as they stay off the groomed tracks. Aside from the odd person, most people followed the rules.
This particular spot has a stand of birch trees that will turn bright green in the spring and a vibrant yellow in the fall. It’s also a good spot to see birds, with people leaving seed on the railing of the bridge.
February 5, 2021
While taking pictures of icicles the other day, I noticed that there were icicles forming on the Christmas lights that I have yet to take down. I took the opportunity to capture some light refraction from the ice.
If I’m lucky, the lights will come down on a warm day in April or May. If they don’t come down then, they will probably just stay up until the next season.
February 6, 2021
I’ve been trying to find new perspectives and inspirations. Many of my shots are still life and I haven’t done much in the way of motion or staged shots.
This particular shot of fruit being dropped in a vase of water is a bit of a photography cliche, but it gave me to a chance to use the rapid shot setting on the camera, and the remote shutter control. What I like about this shot is the kiwi shaped bubble directly above the fruit.
February 7, 2021
Today was a bit of whirlwind. I had planned to make sourdough pizza and had looked up a few recipes. Unfortunately, I made the amount of starter for a different recipe and ended up with way too much leftover. This meant making two pizza crusts, two loaves of sourdough, and a batch of cinnamon raisin scones (so good and so unhealthy!)
Normally, on Super Bowl Sunday, I am treated to the best chilli ever and the company of a few good guys. This year was a solo party, but at least the food was still good.
I am enjoying your photojournalism!
My favourite this week is the ‘icicle’.
Good stuff Joel.
Do they still have fistfights at Laurel Creek between skiers and dog walkers?
I haven’t seen anything like that this year.
The kiwi sinking in the vase was intriguing. Usually it is the surface disruption – rippling or waves- that get captured.