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Lake Anna – February 2012
Written by Sandy O'Brien - Editor
Are you sure it’s February? I know, if you listen to the news or look at a calendar, yes – indeed it is February. But you sure can’t tell by the weather. And, what wacky weather! Some of us had some weird snow back in October of last year. Remember? Just two months after the earthquake and Hurricane Irene blew through, some folks in Virginia were without power for days!
But Mother Nature has been especially kind to us this winter…so far. At least weather-wise; did you feel the 3.2 magnitude “aftershock” on January 30th around 6:30 p.m.? Or the two we had one day a few weeks ago. I know I did. Those are REALLY getting old. But what I find interesting is that no one I’ve spoken to outside our area knows that we are continuing to feel these aftershocks. And, are they aftershocks? If it had not been for the 5.8 magnitude earthquake on August 23rd, some of these “aftershocks” would probably be considered earthquakes themselves. Ok, I’m over it for now but like I said, it’s really getting old.
So, since the weather is warm, not rainy or snowy, why don’t we call an end to winter and jump-start spring? I don’t think we could find anyone against that – except maybe the kids not missing school on account of snow. Too bad!
I am really ready for spring to hit the Lake Anna area. Just in the last couple of days, I have seen my first daffodil sprouts appear through my brown lawn of leaves. I cannot wait for the first yellow flower heads to appear from their blankets of protective leaves! Bring on the sun and warm temperatures.
But are we close anywhere close to permanent springtime temperatures. I know I’m jumping the gun; the Super Bowl isn’t until next Sunday. I can’t help it; give me a day or two of temperatures hovering around 70 degrees and I officially get Spring Fever!
Well, let us see what the venerable Farmer’s Almanac has to say. Hmm, not exactly an encouraging start – the prediction for January 30 – 31st is “Blizzard.” Seriously. I’m not going to speak for everyone, but we have had our windows open both days. It is after 10:00 p.m. and the temperature is near 55 degrees. Not blizzard weather, by far.
Of course, looking further into the future is much like looking into a crystal ball. But as I forge forward, looking deeper into the winter of 2011 – 2012, it is looking wet. Not cold, according to the Farmer’s Almanac, but warmer than normal and wet. I’m not putting a lot of stock in that report, based on what has transpired so far. So again I say, “Let spring begin!”
Lake Anna is really gorgeous this time of year. The trees have lost their leaves and the bare, stark tree trunks and limbs are really pretty against the backdrop of the setting sun. There is still plenty of wildlife to watch; the deer, raccoons, opossums and mice are most definitely enjoying the unwinter-like weather we have been enjoying, too.
So, just in case we have some wintry weather around the corner, get out now and enjoy the weather. If you are looking to have some fun and support two wonderful causes, come on out to Lake Anna Winery on February 11th for the 8th Annual “Death By Chocolate” event. This year the chocolate extravaganza is being held to benefit the Susan B. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness Foundation on behalf of Lori Addison and the close-to-our-hearts Lake Anna Rescue Squad.
I attended the 7th Annual “Death By Chocolate” and let me tell you, I would not miss this one for the world! In addition to supporting two outstanding organizations, I challenge you to find a more extravagant, abundant, choco-licious event anywhere! Chocolate fans will come from near and far to experience the fun, food and fondue galore. Music will be provided by the acoustic duo “Olive Eyes.” They kept us all entertained last year and I’m sure this year will be no different.
This time of year is also great if you are the hiking type of person. Lake Anna State Park covers over 2800 acres of land and has 10 miles of lake frontage. The park contains eleven multiple-use trails for hiking, horseback and biking. Be sure and check the Lake Anna State Park Web Site to be sure the trail you pick matches your hiking experience. Note: On February 4th, there will be an organized Adventure Trail run in the park with up to 100 runners on the park’s trails from 7:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
Or, if the weather is nice, and it usually is, you can enjoy the huge 13,000 acre lake by watercraft. There’s nothing nicer than gliding along the Lake on a lazy weekend afternoon. If you like to fish, the fish are always biting on Lake Anna. Whatever you do, get out and appreciate what Mother Nature has given us!
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