skipping stones on ice

it is that time of year, here in minnesota, when the lakes begin to freeze over. This morning on my walk around the lake of the isles, with hot coffee and pup in tow, there are signs of impatient skaters throwing rocks on the lake-ice to judge the substantialness of their personal back-yard glaciers, hoping the ice is getting there.

At 40 degrees and sunny they may need another week.

Last year was my first time walking on a frozen lake, at the art shanty festival on medicine lake in plymouth. It took me a while to feel comfortable, but when i saw an ice fisherman's line cut through and it was 2 feet deep i felt more confident, i felt like gliding. being carried by something i don't even dare to question.

This year, i already have my new ice skates and skis and i can't wait. i threw a rock out on the lake this morning and it didn't go through. The city set out the warming house yesterday, with all the signs that say 'it's not safe yet'. it's not ready yet, but it's getting there!