A Very Long Month

January has indeed been a very long month.

All 31 days of it.

The apple trees have been tucked in under a steady layer of snow and haven't even begun to dream of pushing out leaves, let alone apples.

Ladybug has adjusted remarkably well to being the Lone Ranger around here.  I have been amazed at her not showing any visible signs of missing the one who was her constant companion for the past 10 and a half years. 

I'm super glad about that.

I think she's kind of enjoying being the centre of attention for a change as Moose was certainly the main big deal around here for the last few months.

Check out her cute little profile there as she mans her post - keeping an eye on the road and any possible intruders from the comfort of the couch. 

What a little Diva.

We wondered if we might hear something about Moose as we had some signs posted in the neighbourhood.

But nope - nothing.

In my blur of grief I mistakenly wrote that we were missing a Labradoodle when he was indeed a Golden Doodle.  

May He rest in winter's peace. 

A sweet friend brought these flowers by in His fluffy white memory.

I've been touched at the kindness of others regarding the loss of our big pooch.

He was only a dog, but he was very well loved and a pretty popular personality up here.

I've even gotten a couple of cards and about 100 comments on my facebook feed regarding his moving on to heavenly realms.

People are so very kind.

Anita arrived home from Iqaluit and initially went out "Moose hunting" until she realized it was like searching for a needle in a haystack. 

Ladybug has been enjoying the long walks that happen when Anita is home.

We've had overcast snow days and sparkling frosty clear ones.

There are so many days in January to experience every sort of winter weather pattern available.

I managed to get Mom and Tante Hilda out on one of the spectacular sunshine days and we sat enjoying our little burgers as we took in this familiar yet ever changing view.

The amount of snow in town fluctuates pretty dramatically but up on the orchard we've been covered in white for quite a few weeks now. 

With no end in sight.

Goodbye January.

You have been gorgeous, but you will not be missed.