We came out of the deep freeze today, at least for a little while. We had beautiful--and very welcome--sunshine, and the temperature rose to 18 above or so in most places. We went to Littleton to have the car checked before heading out for Boston next week, and it seemed to be warmer there than in St. Johnsbury. The wind was still pretty cold, but it wasn't blowing hard, and with the sun shining, it was really very pleasant.
     On our way home, we took some pictures so we'll have some "before and after" shots, since we're expecting quite a bit more snow tomorrow. Friday looks like it could be a pretty wild day with snow and wind--blizzard conditions. We'll see how it all plays out. This first picture is Railroad Street, at the intersection with Concord Avenue at around 1 o'clock this afternoon, and the next one was at Price Chopper parking lot. Plenty of snow around. Streets tended to be a little slippery when we were heading out this morning, but by afternoon, it was warm enough for the salt to work.

     Here at Joe's Pond, things seem to be pretty quiet. Three Ponds was closed today, and because they are doing a good job keeping the lot plowed, it doen't look like West Danville has as much snow as St. J., but that isn't so. Actually, some from West Danville probably landed in St. Johnsbury, with the winds we've been having.
    This is Route 2W heading for Point Comfort. This stretch was fairly icy in the morning, but much better when this was taken. Fred got another shot of the Point as we were leaving West Danville.
    Not much at all is going on on our side of the pond. We see an occasional track where some animal has crossed our driveway or the lower lawn, but I have had the blinds down a good share of the time during this extreme cold, so if there was anything out there in the daytime, I wouldn't see it. I think most of the activity happens at night, anyway. At least the days are getting longer now, so it won't be too long before we're seeing more activity from wildlife. I know, I'm rushing the season, talking about coming out of winter, but it helps to know that no matter how awful the weather is, spring will come. It's not just about the weather--it's a good way to look at things in general. No matter what happens or how bad things seem, given a little time, it WILL get better--spring comes. It just does.
     Stay warm and safe. Think SPRING.