Summer is now in full bloom, even in the Great White North. Canadian summers are for the most part very pleasant, with long, warm, sunny days. But we had an unusually long and cold winter this past year, with snow lasting into May.
I visit my elderly father, who lives in Winnipeg, as often as possible. He is no longer able to drive but he still likes to go on road-trips. Just a little over 2 months ago we headed north of Winnipeg to the beach community of Victoria Beach, situated on the shore of massive Lake Winnipeg, where we’d had a cabin in the 1980s and 1990s. We both have many special memories of this community during those years.
A focal point of the community is its pier, built and maintained by the Government of Canada as a place where Coast Guard ships patrolling Lake Winnipeg can dock from time to time. The pier is a poplar place to fish. I personally have hauled hundreds of fish out of the lake right at this spot.
While the bulk of the lake had thawed, my dad and I were astounded by how much ice remained near the pier so late into spring (mid-May).
That didn’t stop these tough young Canadians from enjoying the warm sunny day as they floated on these mini-bergs.
It’s amazing how people adjust to their own environment.
I enjoy the cold of winter. Nice sunny day and Jack Frost nibbling at your toes.
If the young ones hanging on to the Iceberg had been Polar Bears – I would have donated £20 to Greenpeace !
The act of dunking oneself into freezing water is often known as a “polar bear” activity. So get ready with those £20, Garry.