Balmy Winter

Prior to moving here we researched this island as much as we could.  Maritime climate came up.  We found this meant mild winters, cool summers.  Mild winters.  I don't want to seem as if I am gloating about the temperatures, but dang, it has been balmy here lately!  And by lately, I mean this winter.  Well, for me at least.

When the rains come, they usually stay for a long time and it is foggy and the ground is mushy for days.  However, when the sun comes out, it is warm and comfortable (if there is no wind).  Mid 30's for winter is not what we were expecting.  Compared to what I grew up with and got used to in Montana, this place is very different.  

Here, the kids here only been able to go sledding once this winter.  Snow just doesn't stay or is followed by torrential rains.  How bizarre.  We have been wearing light wind/rainproof jackets comfortably.  Though we have winter jackets, they are too hot to wear.  Nate only used his winter coat last week while in Anchorage, but otherwise the three climate jackets stay in the closet. 

On our morning walks to the school, we hope for frozen ground to walk on.  Trudging through the mud is slippery and difficult to do in work clothes.  Good boots make all the difference. 

I should knock on wood as I am unsure what is typical for weather around here.  The sun makes me feel so giddy and the days or weeks of rain fade from memory.  It has been an interesting seven months thus far.

Facing west.  

Facing east.  It is hard to determine the season without the snow cover.