Snowdrift Blocking Lane, Calder Valley, West Yorkshire, 23/3/13.
The Spring Equinox sometimes brings a bit of light snow to the Calder Valley. Usually it disappears quickly, leaving flowers to come up and birds to sing. This year heavy snow has fallen across the northern half of Britain. Drifts of up to fifteen feet. Widespread power cuts. I went up the hill and found a lane blocked by huge accumulations. Not so much on the fields, but snow piled against dry stone walls. An easterly wind needling my cheeks. The wind sculpted drift in this picture seems to be holding the wall. I met an elderly man who said he’d not seen as much snow there since ’47. Its certainly a long time since I saw this much.
I’m not sure why, but when I got home I burst into tears. New snow makes me feel elated. The bright light and clear air energises my body/mind like nothing else. I can see why the cold is dangerous though. It can also short-circuit the brain! After taking a photograph I thought I’d lost one of my gloves. I looked everywhere for it, then realised it was in my mouth. Well, I am getting on a bit! This morning they’d cleared the lane, reaching farms that had been cut off. A Song Thrush was singing as more light snow fell.
Snow Drift Cleared from Lane, Calder Valley, West Yorkshire 26-3-13.
animist jottings 
“After taking a photograph I thought I’d lost one of my gloves. I looked everywhere for it, then realised it was in my mouth.”
At least it wan’t your foot!
I am always amazed when I see landscapes such a these. By comparison with autumn here in New South Wales Australia, snow bound environments represent another world entirely. Dare I say it, an alien landscape.
Kind wishes, J