C3

Ben Whalen

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Have you ever been scared to talk about something because you thought it might put a jinx on you? I know, as a hockey player, you never mention the word shutout if your goalie is carrying one into the third period. Recently though I was worried about writing winter columns, because I didn't want to bring the snow any sooner than it had to. I guess now I don't have to worry. Wow! What a first snowfall we got. It is a good thing I like shoveling snow. Call me crazy, but it is likely the best form of exercise I get sometimes.

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Once the snow starts and winter truly sets in, I love the evenings. Many people like to cuddle up by the fire place or with a book and a cup of hot chocolate. Me, I like to go for a walk in the woods, especially on a full moon or well lit night. There is something special about walking in the woods at night in the winter. The moonlight is enhanced as it reflects off the crisp, clean snow and the shadows seem less scary. It is an odd sort of calming, intense silence. I'm slightly scared but the fear is under control and the adrenaline from it provides me with the warmth I need. Your nose and cheeks are cold and pink but your eyes are wide open staring at the moon and the shadows from the leafless birch trees. The south slope of the hill you are wandering on is starting to cool even more and the stream below you is releasing a light steam as it gurgles for air before running below an ice bridge. Your snowshoes now start to crunch as the top layer of snow freezes harder and the sound travels along with that of your breathing far into the woods.

I top the ridge I was walking and choose to sit on a deadfall to have a cup of tea. My breathing creates a mist around my nose and causes my eyes to water slightly. Silence is all I can hear as I sip on the warm cup quietly. I think to myself, "Wouldn't it be great to see a deer over in that small clearing?" and then one appears. Just as quick though, it disappears back into the shadows as it heads for a drink of water from the creek below.

This is not a journey I have made recently, but I have taken this from my journal. The winter woods in the evening can be magical and I encourage everyone to take a walk and discover what nature has to offer at night. If you go, be prepared. Dress warm and take a flashlight, matches, food and water, map and compass, and of course your common sense. It will surprise you how different things can be. See you in the woods.

Ben Whalen is an avid backpacker, adventurer, and environmentalist, who loves the natural areas in and around Kings County. If you have a suggestion for an article or would like to join him on a hike contact him at benwhalen@hotmail.com.