Clare ( the House and other Musings) reported that the sun has set for the last time in 3 months and in Edmonton the snow is here to stay I think. but it was bright and reflective for our walk this morning in the ravine and consequently a mood lifter, as often November without the snow can be dull and dreary. Stopped for abit to watch some interaction of squirrels gathering mountain ash berries, 5-6 chickadees that so friendly came with in a foot of me, however fleetingly and probably due to an attached bird feeder and a blue jay who kept up a constant chatter. The tap-tap-tap of a woodpecker could be also heard near by but not seen. It was amazing just to stop, listen and watch this interaction. however the moment another party of walkers and dogs came in the paths below all the birds seem to disappear.

The snow and changing from daylight savings felt like a definite change of season, one which i probably have been resisting in my routines as still doing the yard clean up and taking water from the rain barrel late last week but now frozen. Did however have thoughts about planning my next trip  north in december or january and made some phone calls. However so far have heard that there is social work coverage already made  in most communities for the Xmas holidays....seems abit strange as about 6 weeks ago I had a call that help was needed in at least 5 different hamlets. Will wait and see so don't know where I will be for Xmas.