10 January 2010

Frosty and magnificent

It’s been really nice weather here - cold, but sharp and beautiful. You know you are getting acclimatized when you say “it’s only -11 today - no need for a hat”. Saturday was clear skies, and then the trees frosted on Saturday night, leaving them postcard-perfect. The scenery is beautiful, a photo doesn’t do it justice. The air is clear and crisp, the snow is squeaky and dry, and the landscape is white and black. There’s been plenty of snow, and the snowman at our front gate has been putting on weight.

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Given the snowy conditions, it’s easier to use a sled for Roald than a pram. He approves. Here he is looking across the ice to the mainland. It’s frozen here, and paths across the ice let you walk past the channel markers instead of taking the bridge.

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The dogs enjoy it for a while, but they do get cold eventually - you can tell when you see them lift a paw. Elli acts as puppies do, and needs Coco to box her into place. At least the snow means that she doesn’t fit under the fence.

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Felix has lost his two front teeth now - he lost one in Tallinn at breakfast. He’s happy with his gappy smile, and chews snow for comfort. Felix walks in the deepest snow, next to the path, because it’s more fun.

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Roald just loves being outside. I dug a channel for his swing. The snow is quite thick, so things like park benches, buttons for pedestrian crossings, and playground equipment are all about 5cm off the ground. He will stay outside until he’s apple-cheeked and too tired to stand, and then complain loudly when he is brought inside.

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