Emily Plihal
Editor, Smoky River Express

I don’t know about all of you readers, but I am up to my ears in frustration with winter.

Yes, we are lucky we live in a country that is fortunate enough to see four seasons. But enough is enough.

I am anxious for weather that reaches 20 degrees Celsius.

I want to jump on a quad and go deep into the bush with no one but animals in my path.

Spring is an exciting season. Instead of fighting with snow and cold winter chill, the major obstacles are mosquitos and mud.

My favourite thing about springtime is when the snow and ice melt, and the trees start to bloom. To me, it’s like life begins in springtime.

Studies show depression is at its highest during winter seasons. It is harder to spend time outside, people get cabin-fever. Their tolerance lessens because they are stir-crazy and ready to get outside.

For me personally, spring is a time to remember all the great things life has to offer.

I spend a lot of time out in the bush guiding with my dad, who owns an outfitting company based out of Donnelly.

I have the opportunity to see young animals shortly after they’re born. It is amazing how nature teaches the animal all the basic survival skills necessary to stay alive. The mothers are so aware of where their youth are. They give their babies all the knowledge they possibly can with a gentle nuzzle.

I find the majority of stress seems to disappear when the sun begins to shine for a longer period of time each day.

Life seems to take a big breath of fresh air, people even seem to be less cranky towards one another.

Think of all the activities we will be able to do outside soon.

One major favourite with people in this area is camping. Soon we’ll be able to spend our weekends at our favourite parks across the province, country or even continent.

Fishing and spring bear hunting opportunities also arise as the winter cold dissipates.

When the cold air leaves, and the warm bliss of spring arrives, there are more opportunities to even go for a walk.

If you are all like me, I hate to leave the comfort of my warm home on a cold winter night.

I’d rather bundle up on a couch with a warm cup of hot chocolate than venture outside when it is minus 30 degrees Celsius.

Call me a chicken, call me what you will, but spring is definitely my season of choice.

The only negative about the summer approaching is the end of hockey season.

Playoffs start, or in the case of NPHL, have already ended. The long summer only allows avid hockey fans the opportunity to watch golf, football, volleyball, baseball, and my personal love... NASCAR.

Now that I’ve gone on a little tangent, congratulations to the Falher Pirates for accomplishing such great statistics this year.

Your hard work and commitment was well observed by the surrounding communities.

I think we are fortunate to have two amazing NPHL teams in the Lakeland Eagles and Falher Pirates right on our door steps.

Thanks to both teams for providing such great hockey to watch.

A little bit of spring and summer action then we’ll all be ready to support our local hockey clubs again in the fall.

Congratulations again on your success!

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