First Snow

It happens every year at around this time, so it should hardly be a surprise. But it is somehow. Surprising. 

I fear I might need some kind of anti-freeze for the flow of my thoughts in this weather, which feel like they're coagulating with the cold, forming inchoate lumps in my head. Weird.

This grouse appeared to be similarly struck dumb by the cold. I have a habit of scaring wildlife away before I've even noticed it's there. Not only did I spot this grouse, but actually had time to remove my mitts, take the camera from my pocket, and actually get close enough to take a passable photograph. Result.