Winter 2011/2012: First Snowfall

Winter greets Ottawa this morning with a snowfall that has turned the city white overnight. Snow flakes are falling from the sky, covering people, cars, streets, and buildings with starry crystals.

The sudden and magical change in scenery marks the arrival of winter at our door steps and reminds us once again that we are living in a northern country.

Here in Ottawa's China town, pedestrians are walking gingerly on the wet and slippery surface, avoiding slushy puddles while dodging splashes from passing vehicles.

A shop keeper from a nearby Chinese Acupuncture & Herbs Centre is shoveling snow in short-sleeve shirt. Caught by old man winter without a jacket, he disappears quickly back into his shop, leaving behind a curse under his frozen breath.

There are still quite a few hardcore cyclists pushing their two wheelers through the snow while motorists are trying to drive around them on the already narrowed street.

I am taking this photo on Somerset Street in sub-zero temperature and will quickly find my way to a near-by Tim Horton for a warm cup of double-double morning coffee.

And by the way: Greetings from the Great White North !!!