The thermometer registered 15C below, and the snow was sparkling beneath a blue sky; I had to go out. This tete-a-tete looked soft and inviting but cold, so I didn't sit down. Instead I pulled my hood over my head and strolled toward the barn. There is a set of twin calves that are so tiny, Scott said, that when they were born they stood only about two feet tall. Now that's small. They're a week old already so will have grown a lot but I thought I'd like to see them.

I thought this dog was white. She looks pale against the brilliance of the fresh snow. I couldn't bear to leave the sunlight to go into the dark barn, so trudged right on past.

It was a much-needed walk. I've been hibernating since it turned cold, and that is not smart; I need fresh air and exercise daily, even if it isn't much. Today was a normal Saskatchewan winter day so I was fearless enough to remove a mitten to snap photos, only to discover that it's not as mild out there as it looks.

Wild roses all around the yard provide for birds over the winter.

We plan to work together over at Golden Grain Farm this weekend, go out for supper with Faye and Rick tomorrow night and attend a concert in town on Sunday afternoon. It'll be a busy couple days after a week of moving slowly.

Now Playing: Valdy, from Emil's bedroom