On January 2st, 2016, we ventured up to MacGregor Point Provincial Park in search of snow. We actually ended up driving through a bit of a winter storm but we were rewarded with snow to hike through.
We went for several small hikes with snacks and warm drinks in between, and Maya was all in for it (especially the treats)
We started our day at the Huron Fringe Trail that took us on a boardwalk to the frozen ponds. At the beginning of the trail we also got to see some birds enjoying the seed that the park rangers put out for them.
Maya has always enjoyed the snow and the smell of critters making tunnels out of sight. We don’t know how her nose didn’t fall off through the years, it must be really cold to stick your sensitive nose into a snow bank.
As always, Maya looks back to see if I’m coming. When she was younger she would have ran back to get me and then run off to the end of her lease again. I swear over the years she easily hiked twice as much as we ever did.
After checking out the frozen edge of Lake Huron, Maya got really excited and a burst of energy came over her as she F.R.A.Ped for a few minutes. Labs stay young for a very long time and use to have these bursts of energy frequently. This was the first one we had seen in a while and it is a blast to watch. F.R.A.P. stands for Frenetic Random Activity Periods and usually happens with puppies and many dogs will also do this after their bath. They will suddenly run, at full tilt, around people, trees, furniture or just in circles. It’s adorable but it shouldn’t be given too much positive attention in puppies or you’ll encourage rowdy behaviour as your dog grows up. Luckily for us, Maya’s episodes have always been outside and have never been a problem.
Of course, at almost 14 years old, the FRAPing episode was followed by a huge slow down in speed and energy, so we turned around and walked leisurely back to the truck for some energy replacement snacks.
Here’s Maya immediately after the burst of energy. I was sensing a “pick me up” vibe coming from her.
After snacks, lunch and warming up we went for another short hike along part of the Ducks Unlimited Trail.
It was a fantastic way to start the New Year with your family. After we were finished we picked up Swiss Chalet take-out, ate and then drove home in the dark.
