When the world gives you lemons, optimists suggest making lemonade.
Well, in this part of the world, that analogy could apply to winter. So, when Mother Nature gives you snow and cold temperatures - amid a global pandemic - why not turn it into an outdoor playground for everyone to enjoy?
That’s what several people have done this winter.
For example, Tamara Schaly and her husband Rick have created six kilometres of groomed cross-country ski trails on Lake Couchiching for community use. (Click here to read the story)
The local couple was looking for some physical activity and found it hard to “trench through” the ice on the lake.
So, they did some research and purchased a snowmobile and a trail groomer and got busy.
These days, many people are using the trails to enjoy some physical activity in the great outdoors.
“I think it’s really important for us to come together in the pandemic and help make each other stronger,” Tamara Schaly told us.
“Nothing feels better than giving back to the community by giving families something to do during the month of February, which is always a tough month for everybody, especially during this pandemic.”
Reed and Helen Ellis did something similar. The retired couple usually travel south during the winter but, of course, that is not possible this year due to the pandemic. (Click here to read the story)
Near Christmas, they decided to start creating a rink “for the community” on Lake Couchiching at Brewery Bay, near their home.
The 100 by 75-foot rink quickly became popular, so the couple created a skate trail to provide another option for visitors.
They work on the rink every morning. And they do it for others.
“The rewarding part of it is how it’s been received by our whole community of Orillia,” he said.
As the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes. These two couples are living proof that silver linings are there if you choose to look.
Kudos to them for their hard work and dedication and for sharing their creations with their community at a time when a gesture of kindness is needed more than ever.
