First Snow of the Year

Not counting the freak snow storm in Calgary in September, this weekend we've seen the First Snow...the one that has not only arrived, but also is ongoing as I type and is fixing to stay around.

I've decided that even if the winter ahead is as long and cold and snowy as the winter of 2013-2014, this time 'round I'm not going to let it get the best of me!

This year, I'm ready.  I've several coping methods up my sleeve(s); to wit --

1. Lots to do in the sewdio -- Christmas knitting, my 15 x 15 challenge(s), some major family-and-friend commissions, and the chance I'll get to be one of the new students in Elizabeth Barton's Master Class.
2. My second year as a SAQA Western Canada Co-Rep, with the objective of learning how to host an online webinar/conference sometime in March.
3. And last but not least...

The Ideal Single Female Home-owner's Winter Work-out.

Optimum Conditions for the ISFHWW:  

• Light, steady snow;
• Little or no breeze;
• Moderate winter temps -- -10 to -15 C at the coldest and little or no wind chill;
• A layer of at least 6" of the white stuff, preferably powder.
• Not just a deck or sidewalk that needs clearing, but also a driveway -- preferably double-wide.

Optimum Equipment for the ISFHWW:

Sturdy, light-weight shovel

Sturdy, warm boots

Warm, wind-proof jacket

Warm pants - even layered with tights

Warm hat - *must* cover ears
Optional: protective eye-wear

Protective gloves/mittens*

*My personal favourite: layering dollar-store gloves under cozy hand-made finger-less ones -- either hand knit or, like these, made from recycled cashmere sweaters.  I bought my pair at a recent "pop-up" market at Latitude 53 in Edmonton...Maker: Lynne Fortowsky of the Sashiko Studio.  Love 'em!

Best of all, when you've spent an hour or so outdoors shovelling, you can come in for a hot cup of Dark Roast...and some cozy stitching...

Shown here: finishing the binding on a Magic Tiles
quilt for baby Kieran James Rennie Ward

P.S.: For Inquiring Minds: these pieces are now finished:

See You in the Spring  (C) 2014

Tipsy Autumn (C) 2014

Five minis will be delivered to Gracie D's tomorrow.  Tell your friends!