Embracing Seasonal Change in Manitoba
It's September 20th in Manitoba. It's that time of year where the heat in your home or vehicle is on the morning and there is most likely the sound of air conditioning whirling in the afternoon. You're torn between what to wear and how to dress for the day. You see the low single celcius digits out right now, with the forecast jumping to double digits later on. You decide to dress in layers. A classic Manitoban ensemble. You have your shoes and pants, a t-shirt, light sweater and jacket. You even decide to grab your toque (warm winter hat) and mitts in case it's extra cool out. You also remember a baseball cap, sunglasses and water bottle. Summer is turning into Autumn.
For what may seem like a bother to some, is every day life here in Manitoba, Canada. Manitoba is a province located in the middle of Canada and experiences four distinct seasons annually. Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter. Through all of these seasons comes time of transition. Often referred to as, shoulder seasons. It's not this season, it's not that season, but the time in between. It creates a sense of excitement for what is to come. It's a feeling that every Manitoban has come to embrace and yearn for. When it's winter and it's too cold, we can't wait for summer and vice versa. But, long before the calendar tells us the official first day of the new season, we feel it , we see it.
The budding of new growth on trees, birds chirping and the sound of melting snow as it drips on the eavestrough of your home. You reflect back on puddle jumping as a kid.
The first sight on the stock of sunscreen as it hits the shelves in every store. The hot glow of sunshine on your skin when you step out your front door and the sudden rise in saturation around every corner you turn.
You see the first color changing leaf as it delicately falls from the sky, rocking back and forth. You feel a lighter, fresher, cooler breeze glide over your cheeks. You feel a sudden calling to warm beverages, sweaters, spices and picturesque walks through the trees.
A cozy campfire is lit and you are roasting marshmellows with friends. Your cheeks are red and rosy from your skins touch to the cool air, but you are warm and full of joy. You hear songs of the season and experience the magic of watching someone ice skating for the first time.
Seasonal change in Manitoba is a pattern on repeat. Choose experience and embrace, you'll be glad you did.
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