The moon is past its prime. But it was a milder night, so I went out for a few quick photos.

Then, as I looked to my right, I spotted Orion in the south. One of my favourites.

And Cassiopeia, to the northwest.

I was standing in the woods at the side of the trail, taking photos of the drifting snow. At first I thought it was a cat running toward me.

It was a grey squirrel, his fur all fluffed up to keep warm. He must have thought I was a short thick tree, because he only paused for a second to look at me, and then continued down the trail.

After yesterday’s blizzard, today the sun was shining. This afternoon it was -20C, with a wind chill of -30C. It was a beautiful walk in the woods, with drifting and blowing snow.

Out on the open fields, the wind was more forceful and howling. I didn’t stay long, and had to warm my fingers by curling my hands into fists inside my gloves. But it was beautiful.

Back on the trail through the woods again, and the wind was much gentler.

Today it’s another blizzard, but a few days ago, we had these gentle blessings drifting down.

In winter in Manitoba the sun is never high above the horizon. I love the dramatic shadows.