Brenda Leigh loves winter, so she was tickled pink when it finally arrived in the Brimley area where she lives. She and her hubby, Jim, set out right away for a hike on the trail that goes around Monocle Lake near their home. Quite scenic indeed, so I can see the draw to hike this area.

She said they were surprised to see a guy fishing in a paddle canoe while they were on the upper trail around the lake. I'm guessing it's not too often you see someone paddling around and fishing in December. Hardy gentleman to be out there on the chilly waters.

Also seen along the shoreline hiking trail were bushes with mounds of snow that had accumulated on the branches, giving way to many shapes the imagination can discover. There were leaves in the water, like the oak leaf in Brenda's fourth photo, which will get frozen for the winter where it is.

Brenda also said there were many beautiful winterberries like in the bottom photo. According to what Brenda told me, these berries are part of the Holly family and have medicinal uses, along with use in teas and tonics. She said that they aren't good for direct consumption, as eating them whole like that can cause vomiting and the article she read stated they can be noxious to humans and animals. So, unless you know what you're doing with these berries, I'd suggest that you just enjoy them for the beauty they provide against the winter white. Better to be safe than sorry!

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!

Truly a Winter Wonderland!!

But, I think you have "Oak leaf underwater" and "Snowy bushes" reversed, Mary......

Nice winter scenes. I particularly enjoy the first picture. Thanks for sharing.

Very artsy pix, but "Oak leaf underwater' is blowin my fragile mind, man.

I'd rather see oak leaves green and on the tree.

Walkin' in a Winter wonderland.

Thanks for the close-up view of this area! We have only seen Monocle Lake from the Mission Hill Cemetery/Overlook.

Guess the Winterberries were just meant to help the birds and critters thru the snowy months.

I knew these were from Brenda! Great pictures,
Brenda!

On another note, I know I'm a day late today (the
10th) but I had no time yesterday. Thinking about
my dad who passed away 8 years ago today. I can't
believe where that time has gone. I thought about
him so often yesterday. He's never far from my
thoughts. I miss him so much. Our conversations
every day were always a bright spot for me. How I
miss that. RIP, dad. I love you!!