On days like this when it's so cold we banter between ourselves on the merits of remaining snug and warm at home rather than tempt the elements  its touch-and-go. Invariably there's something that convinces us we can't short-change the puppies and bypass any opportunity to get them out into the great out-of-doors. Because the sun has been so bright streaming through the sliding doors of the breakfast room, Jackie and Jillie seemed convinced they'd be comfortable out on the deck basking in its warmth.

 

It took them no time at all to realize that they would be more comfortable enjoying the sun from the indoors as it streamed through to warm up the house. It's something they've got to experience themselves before they're convinced. Our earnest explanations don't seem to resonate quite so much as a deep albeit brief acquaintance with the icy cold penetrating their haircoats.

 

The high temperature for the day would be around -10C, but of course the windchill figures into the equation and it's much colder than that. There's also the fact that for the next two days temperatures will plunge even lower and at that point we might be well advised to remain at home rather than brave the wind and the cold seeping through our winter jackets in weather-exposure being in the ravine. Where there is also the additional factor of the snowpack radiating its own penetrating cold upward.

In the end we were convinced it would be better to strike out for the ravine, and just dress a mite more carefully against the cold. Jackie and Jillie seem oblivious to any cold-discomfort. They initially try to evade the indignity of having to be dressed for the venture, but once that's done they literally champ at the bit to get out.

 

Eventually, we came across others out with their doggy companions, giving ours the opportunity to be little socialites. After all, the others of their acquaintance are intimately familiar with the barking Jillie is addicted to and when they hear her, they know that cookies won't be long in coming.

 

Irving has a penchant for stopping and chatting with those we're familiar with. Needless to say those are not ideal conditions to stand around in one spot exposing oneself without expending any energy to maintain what feeble warmth you've brought to the occasion. Men like to discuss men-centred items of interest with one another, and that's that.

 

The cold seemed to do nothing much to disturb the bird life, although the forest squirrels were nowhere in sight, preferring their semi-hibernation to the raw elements of nature. The barred owl was about and declaring his presence, though we were unable to catch sight of it. We stand a better chance of seeing him when the crows have gathered to torment the owl.

 

Again, the pileated woodpecker was busy rat-tatting some of the trees it has been focusing on of late. The height at which he's been operating plus the distance keep us from seeing him, other than when he's in flight and then his pterodactyl-like form shouts out, 'Here I am!'.