Editor’s Note

Winter Wandering

I’VE GAINED AN appreciation for many things over the past three years, but perhaps none so much as the love of solitude in wide-open spaces. Between lockdowns, working remotely from home and a general social withdrawal, many of us have become incredibly acquainted with the inside of our homes. While that has resulted in new hobbies, new furniture and relaxing nights in, it’s also driven some of us a bit stircrazy and looking for a way to get outside.

I do admit to being a little more aware of crowds than I was in the past. I’m not avoiding them necessarily, nor do I feel uncomfortable when I’m at a concert or a Canucks game, but I definitely notice when I’m in the middle of a whole bunch of people. You could probably call it a light case of claustrophobia.

This has led to a shift in how I plan my outings. I used to love heading downtown to get lost in the busy streets, or out to some new restaurant. The feeling of complete anonymity while being surrounded by people was something I cherished about living in the city. Now I find myself gravitating toward places that are more… empty. Places where you can wander around for a few hours and not run into another living soul. They don’t have to be scenic or famous—those places have too many people—but they do have to have some charm, quiet and calm.

When I picture such a scene, the first thing that comes to mind is a snowy forest. Tree boughs bent with fresh snow, twinkling crystalline snowflakes floating in the sunbeams, and a quiet stillness that you don’t find in the warmer months when bugs, birds and critters contribute to the background noise. This feels like a place where I can walk for a while, get some fresh air and clear my mind, without fear of running into crowds of people.

This is precisely the scene I had in mind while reading Linda Gabris’ article on “Foraging for Winter Teas” in this issue. Linda is a long-time columnist at our sister publication BC Outdoors, and is the real deal when it comes to living the outdoor lifestyle in Northern BC. At first, I wasn’t sure what direction this story would be heading. I am well acquainted with foraging in spring, summer and fall, which each have their own wellknown target species. But what can you find in the frozen forest that isn’t dried, dead or covered in snow. It turns out, quite a bit. I encourage you to check it out for yourself.

I’ve always been a big fan of “hiking with a purpose” whether it’s fishing or bird watching or something like that, and searching the forest for a herbal tea sounds oh-so appealing. I personally can’t wait to get out and have a winter wander with the purpose of finding both solitude and something warm and refreshing to bring home.

And there’s the added bonus of it being a whole bunch cheaper than shopping and eating out in the city. So, if you’re looking for a reason to escape the crowds and get outside this winter consider foraging. It’s not just for the warm months!

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