My friend Uta has invited me countless times to the cabin she and her husband bought three years ago in northern Minnesota, near Lake Superior. Her persistence finally paid off last weekend when we sandwiched a visit between winter storms and work obligations.
Yes, you read that right: winter storms.
The North Shore is famous for its changeable “lake effect” weather — and for even longer, harsher winters than we endure in the Twin Cities. Still, neither of us had expected to look out the window and see this on Friday morning:
I bundled up (because I had packed poorly in my haste to leave town) and headed out for a stroll … but stopped on the front steps. Even the utility shed was beautiful under its white blanket.
Farther down the gravel road, the trees and leaves were frozen in their fall glory.
But apart from the tiny footprints of a bird (probably a dark-eyed junco, on its way south) I didn’t see or hear any wildlife.
The only sound, in fact, was the soft murmur of the Baptism River’s rapids. No cars, no airplanes, no lawnmowers or snowblowers. Bliss.
See the copper color of the water?
Someone once told me it was from the soil’s high iron content (this is in the Iron Range, after all). But Uta thought it was due to tannins from all the leaves. Whatever the case, the brownish-tan color even leached through the tire tracks on the road.
It was still snowing, so it didn’t take long for my fingers to become red and numb. I was relieved to spot the garage as I walked back up the steep road.
In the back yard, the lawn furniture and barbecue looked as frozen as I felt. I was grateful to have a cabin to retreat into, instead of just a tent.
By the time Uta and I finished breakfast, the snow had turned to rain — and my hopes of seeing any fall color were fading by the hour.
But remember what I said about the changeable weather? In 24 hours, the landscape would change again. I’ll leave you with this photo as a little hint.
Our North Shore adventure will continue in a few days.
HeideBlog 
Beautiful pictures as always.
I am glad you can find the beauty in this snow covered landscape. Too often my co-workers complain about winter. They also complain about summer and how hot it is, but then conveniently forget their complaints in winter and late fall.
I am enjoying the season so far, but have not seen snow yet.
I do have to rake up some leaves this afternoon, though.
So do we! It snowed in the Twin Cities this morning, and this afternoon I heard several lawn mowers going. Faster than raking, some of my neighbors seem to figure. Ha!
I’d rather hear the lawnmower than the leaf blower.
Sounds like the beginning of a very catchy song! 😉
Thank you for your kind words, Anthony — as always. But don’t give me *too* much credit just yet! Let’s see whether I’m still finding beauty in the snow come February. :). Isn’t it nice to at least have some variety in our complaints, though? Imagine how boring it would be if it were the same year-round.
Thanks, Awesome look and best photos love you all community and member likewise best vision but one problem am muslim an Pakistani so no suit to same lead thanks love you,
I’m so glad you liked the photos! Greetings to you all the way from Minnesota.
Great photos Heide! I saw some snow flurries this morning.
Thank you, Tom! I saw snow flurries this morning too. Here we go!
We had 25 degrees and hot yesterday and today is grey, rain and cold
Wow, Bella — what a big change in the weather! Hope you’re staying toasty warm and dry today. 🙂
Yes, all dry
Oh, I can’t quite believe this…. we went to a wedding at Lac Léman (Lake Geneva) on Saturday AND followed this beautiful event up with a short cruise on said lake from Montreux to Lausanne, AND today we went in the Zurich region to a another family party, again with the most glorious autumnal weather, trees and shrubs in those incredible red/orange/yellow/greenish/brown colours…. I really feel terribly sorry for you – I think I’d have to die if winter came so suddenly and heavily! Courage and joy – from Switzerland and France!
Merci infiniment pour le <>, Kiki ! It’s wonderful to see you here again. It sounds like you had an absolutely spectacular weekend. If I didn’t like you so much I might be envious. 😉 Did you get any photos of the fall colors? Here the snow has melted and we’re getting a bit of color too. Which makes me happy as it’s one of my favorite times of year …
Thanks to my smartphone I’m in possession of the most delightful collection of pics. It’s funny, I’m in Switzerland right now and in comparison to my usual habitat in France, autumn is much more advanced here – so I shall go back and it will start all over again …. ain’t I the lucky girl? 🙂
You are indeed the lucky girl to get two autumns this year! (I felt the same way after seeing the leaves up on the North Shore of Lake Superior and then again in the Twin Cities a week later.) Do you ever share or post your photos anywhere? I would love to see your work.
Heide, yes, I still take photos but my eye sight is appalling…. AND I have far more urgent matters to worry about than my non-blog. AND I have planned (and even prematurely maybe promised) to be back on my Flickr photopage once more as of the middle of next year when HOPEFULLY my life and nerves are a bit less frazzled and orderly…. I also share my photos with friends on Whatsapp and in personal mails but no blog…. Send me a mail and I can show you just HOW beautiful my life can be!!! 🙂
Wow, snow, really like the utility shed images and the thought of all that quietness.
I really like that utility shed too, I must admit — one of my favorite images I’ve shot in ages! And yes, indeed, the quietness was lovely. But it all seems like a dream now that I’m back in the city!
These are gorgeous! I thought you’d enhanced your photos with color until I read it was all natural!
We reached 81 for a high temperature yesterday, here in Texas, so I really enjoyed your reminder that another season is being enjoyed elsewhere!
Wow … 81 degrees! That sounds like something from another planet to me already. But yes, yes indeed, we are “enjoying” another season in the north, ha ha! If you want to trade places for a week or two, I don’t think it would take too much arm-twisting. 😉 Thank you so much for stopping by! It’s really wonderful to hear from you.
The first snowfall is always breathtaking….but this early.
MY SENTIMENTS EXACTLY. Sigh.
Your description of the snowy silence made me want to experience it. I guess one difference between you and me is that you went outside while I would savor things from indoors with some hot coffee.
Beautiful photos, as always.
I don’t think we’re all that different, J.P. — I didn’t last long before returning indoors to my cup of coffee too. 😉 Thank you for stopping by, and for your kind words.
I love your photographic eye to capture the feel of the event, not just the scene. Thanks for sharing. I live where snow is not a part of my winter experience unless I go looking for it, which I rarely do. I love joining you on your walk. Thanks
What a wonderful compliment, Patti … thank you for putting my on cloud nine for the rest of the day! And thank you so much for being such a lovely and faithful companion also on these virtual walks.
Those beautiful leaves, it looks like they danced into the snow and froze! What a treat. Look forward to the next instalment. I too am away amid autumn leaves and saw deer from our bedroom this morning. About as wild as wildlife gets here!
Oh, how lucky you are to see deer from your bedroom! I’ve only ever seen tracks in the woods near my home but the animals themselves are like ghosts, they are so elusive. And thank you for your kind words about the photos. It’s a joy to be able to share the beauty I find all around me.
They were magical anyway… Your photos are just fabulous.
Thank you so much. Your kind words make my day!
Some lovely winter woodland photos Heide, but it seems far too early in the year to be seeing snow! We’re having a rather mild autumn (about 15 degrees today), so no chance even of frost any time soon with these temperatures!
It seems too early for snow, even for us in the north, Dan! But I’m relieved to report it didn’t stick around, so all is well. And how wonderful to hear that the weather is so mild in your corner of the world! Sounds excellent for a bike ride. 🙂
Indeed, whilst I don’t intend to be just a fair weather biker, and don’t mind a cold snap, I’m happier riding when it’s dry than wet!
I don’t think you’re in the minority there, Dan … I’ve yet to meet ANY biker who extols the virtues of a wet butt! 😉
Ha, actually I have pretty effective mudguards and I don’t mind getting wet from falling rain if out in my leisure time, just not on my way to work!
Absolutely beautiful photos, Heide! You wouldn’t think something as monochromatic as winter snow scenes would be so magical? But they so are “) It parallels the artistry of B&W photography; all those texture details highlighted. Love your visual journeys and enjoyment of whatever is at hand – thank you 🙂
Thank you for making my WEEK with your kind comment, Lara! I do try to find something beautiful (or at least enjoyable) in my daily life and am glad that comes across. Thank you so much for stopping by! xx
A beautiful practice “)
Beautiful!
Thank you so much, Kent — and thank you for stopping by!
Amazing snow this early. And snow/ice with florid Autumn colours. But then you also saw snow in Paris. Coincidence?
This is a lovely photo series. Beautiful imagery.
Coincidence that I saw snow both in Paris and in Minnesota? Perhaps … though I do seem to be the common denominator, don’t I? 😉
Thank you for your kind words, Mr. Draco. A compliment from you is a compliment indeed!
Those pics are breathtaking!
Thank you, Heather! It’s wonderful to hear from you. 🙂
Wow! Amazing photos! Looks like a beautiful place no matter the weather – maybe. Actually, the photos of the landscape in snow kept bringing to my mind the 2005 Walden Media movie – the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Even the photo of the place after the snow had melted brought to mind the ending when the adult Pevensies are riding through Narnia and accidentally return to Earth.
The North Shore really is gorgeous, no matter the weather — though in the summer you need a good repellent against the mosquitoes and flies. 🙂 And your comparison to “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” is quite apt, Racheal! I had the exact same mental image too when I stepped outside into this landscape!
That was an amazing change! Nevertheless, the first snow always makes the landscape so beautiful when it covers everything in white. Even if fingers become red and numb…
Agreed, Otto! Even if it’s shocking (and maybe even a bit painful) a fresh blanket of snow is beautiful. Thank you so much for stopping by!
Great photos, as always! My parents live in Canada had their first snow a couple weeks ago! We rarely get it in England!
Isn’t it funny that it rarely snows in England? You would think those North Atlantic gales would bring in enough cold air … but I’m glad you’re spared the special torture that is snow. 🙂 Thank you so much for stopping by!
I love snow…..for a few days!haha
You’re a few days more tolerant than me! I love snow for only a few minutes. 😉 Thank you so much for stopping by!
Magical moments in Minnesota ! My stars, every photo, stunning. We’ve also had snow that’s melted. 3 times. The coldest September since the 1800’s 😀 Hooray
It’s amazing how the weather changes so quickly. I do miss the solitude of the country at times. Right this moment, my next door neighbour let her Chihuahua out who immediately starts to bark…until she let’s him back in. I love dogs, even dogs I’ve never met on IG have my heart. But this doggie …gah!
I sound grumpy, I think I need a class of wine, LOL Later tater 😀 x
You’ve had the coldest September since the 1800s? Nooooo!!! Fingers crossed it was just a blip and that it in no way portends what lies ahead for the winter. But on the bright side: At least now there’s central heat and electric blankets. Last weekend I went back to the pioneer museum and marveled at how cold it was, even inside the house. Those people were made of tougher stuff than I am.
That said, I’m sure the pioneers didn’t have to put up with yapping Chihuahuas. Guurrrrl, I feel your pain! At least your neighbor lets the dog back in fairly promptly, by the sounds of it. If the problem gets worse let me know, though, and I’ll send you my recipe for Peamutt Butter Chews. They’re totally healthy and harmless, but if you undercook them a bit they retain the peanut butter’s stickiness and occupy the dog for a while. Or else there’s always wine, LOL. 😉
Anyway. Hope your world is a bit more calm and quiet this morning.
Sending you a big warm hug from Minnesota …
xoxo
LOL, peanut butter sounds like a heck of a solution to Chihuahuas…months from now she’ll wonder how he got so fat ! hahahaha. I like the former Rx too. You’re silly fun 😀
Thank’s tons for those warm hugs from Minnesota. Made me snort cause I’m thinking your winters can be bitter cold too, ha! You make me laugh 😀 xok
I’m so glad to bring a laugh or two! But take my advice on the peanut butter: IT WORKS. 😀
While I am already over the cold (and my hometown also received snow his morning) these pictures are stunning. It is crazy how quickly the weather changes. ❤
So glad to hear I’m not the only one who’s all, “OK, that was a nice winter. Time for spring!” LOL. But thank you for your kind words, Kate. You always make my day! xx
wow those are great photos you clearly good with cameras
Thank you so much, Brainy Elephant! Photography is my favorite hobby, so I greatly appreciate your kind words.
Beautiful pictures. Some of them look like something straight out of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.
You’re not the first person to invoke C. S. Lewis’ name in connection with these photos! I’m flattered by the comparison but must agree: It was a magical vision.
mm….beautiful ice n pics. really long to go there as we don’t even have a little bit of snow in HK. black and white pics…..cool
I’m glad to bring a little bit of snow all the way to Hong Kong, Wendy! But would you believe that all of these photos are color files? This is how Minnesota can look in winter: it’s like living in a black-and-white movie. Pretty wild, eh? Thank you for stopping by, and for taking the time to comment.
Amazing what nature does, This is breath taking.
Nature IS amazing, Mrs. BWalk. I wish more humans thought as you do and treated her better. Thank you very much for stopping by.
Beautiful wintry photos. In my country we have had some snow fall beyond the Arctic Circle, but not in Helsinki.
Have a good day!
Thank you for your kind words about my photos. That is very interesting that you haven’t had snow yet in Helsinki — because it’s actually a bit further north than where I was (in the town of Finland, ironically!). But no doubt you will soon get your blanket of white as well. 🙂
I love the picture of the one chair on the decking, everything looks like it’s been dusted with icing sugar, cold icing sugar, but icing sugar nonetheless.
(oh dear, there’s the diet mentality turning everything to food again). 😊 😊 😊
If one were hungry enough, I’m sure even a deck chair dusted with snow would be tasty. 😉
Wow beautiful! I was so disappointed when it began to snow but it was very beautiful. Glad it melted though and we have had some sunshine. What lovely shots!
No matter how beautiful the snow may be, I’m always happier to see the sunshine. 🙂 Thank you so much for stopping by again!
Snow is always beautiful. Even I am from a place where we experience this beautiful gift of God. I am from Kashmir valley and everyone knows how beautiful and attractive this place is. This place is simply just a masterpiece. The people here are of loving and warm nature, very helpful and a lot more. And even the weather is fabulous, even though the winter is a bit too cold but the beautiful snowfall makes us forget the cold waves. And not to forget the beautiful autumn as well, when everywhere around are leaves scattered losing their lives and getting a beautiful orange colour.
In short, this is a place that eveyone should visit at least once
The way you describe the Kashmir valley certainly makes ME want to go! Thank you for your kind comment.
Yes everyone should surely visit this place
Snow is just amazing!
Its not just a weather condition but a feeling, a reason of smile, a glimpse of kashmir valley.
I’m feeling cold just looking at your lovely photos. I’m happy enough to experience your winter through your lens. The last photo offers plenty of hope. What a change a day makes.
In Minnesota, just an hour can make all the difference! I do hope you’ll be able to visit us sometime; I think you’d like it here (even if it’s not as photogenic as Paris …).