12 January 2024 – But first, an acknowledgment. It is merely -11C as I write this, not (for e.g.) the -33C of Calgary nor the NWT temps that Lynette is recalling in her Baby It’s Cold post.

But still, for Vancouver, -11C is nippy. Yesterday, as Polar Vortex warnings hit our media and temperatures dropped to -3 or so, I decided I had to prove to myself that six years of Vancouver life had not rendered me incapable of going for a sub-zero walk.

Down to False Creek.

Snow-promising skies beginning to build, up there behind the World of Science dome…

and, by mid-afternoon, snow clouds massed even more dramatically all along the Coast Range Mountains.

It did snow.

Just a skiffle, nothing deep, but — given the temperatures — it has stayed on the ground.

Today, over those same Coast Range Mountains, the sunshine that comes with greater cold.

I bundle up once again. I am still not a wimp!

I decide I don’t need to go far: I can satisfy honour with a quick loop around Dude Chilling Park, and a respectful salute to The Dude himself en passant.

Other bundled-up people along the way (and some bundled-up dogs).

I reach the park. There’s The Dude.

With … what… something white… in the crook of his shoulder. Please don’t let it be litter, I murmur to myself. I’ve enjoyed, taken confidence from, the respect people show The Dude. Please let that continue.

Well of course it’s not litter.

It is the world’s smallest snowman, lovingly shaped and lovingly placed, cuddled up with The Dude.

Behind my face-scarf, I am all scrunched up with delight.

And then I take my tingling fingers back home, and wrap them around some hot chocolate.