I told Laurie I had an urge to walk in the snow. I looked out the window and the landscape around the home looked beautiful from the freshly falling snow. We watched CSI and at 10:00 P.M. I bundled up and headed out the door for a walk of unknown destination. accompanying me on this trek was my wide-brimmed hat; a camera and my Tost Stick. Never heard of a Tost Stick? In simple terms it is a sassafras walking stick given to me by my friend Randy Tost. The handle has a section of leather that fits my hand well and I planned to, also, use it for stability for my camera.
The night-time walk began the way I wanted it to… traffic was non-existent! I walked the entire length of Pine Hill Road in West Kittanning, Pennsylvania before crossing the Citizen’s Bridge over the Allegheny River. The walk continued into Kittanning before once again reversing the walk.
Citizen's Bridge at Kittanning
I have mentioned in previous blogs about the beauty of a windless, snowy environment. I stopped more than once to listen and take in the solitude…the peacefulness.. and the quiet. These are seldom experienced in this area and I was “absorbing it all in” and totally enjoying the evening!
I returned home at midnight completely white from the snow. The only disadvantage of the hike was the fact that I had difficulty falling asleep. I felt invigorated from the 4 mile travel. I recommend this kind of walk to all. If you are fortunate to live in a rural area the time out in the snow will be even more enjoyable. I used to do these walks often in my younger days living in a more rural area of the county.
As for photos, I had some success despite not using a tripod. The colors are beautiful. The amount of snow falling somewhat softened the images.
Middle of the bridge
Larry A. Smail's Blog 
Hi Larry, There is nothing quite like a nightime walk or cross country ski on fresh fallen snow. I would suggest, however, that you would be a lot safer in the woods ANYWHERE in North America than in downtown Kittanning after 10:00 pm. Then again… Thy rod and thy staff of sassafras they comfort you. Dana
Yeah you are correct!! The natives (Lenni-Lenape) were restless!
Hello Larry, It was good to read about your Night-time Walk with the Tost Stick. I’ve given sassafras walking sticks to each of my children (6), two sons-in-law, two grandsons, and a few other good friends. A pair of sticks hangs in my shed ready for two more grandchildren I have Paul Shutters to thank for the pieces. The “old wizard”, which he so beautifully carved into each handle, makes each stick truly one of a kind. Having secured the saplings from my property makes them a bit more special in my eyes.
Your tale reminded me that my favorite times of day for shoveling snow are before daybreak or well after sunset. Living in the country, I often get to enjoy nightime skies and sounds in…and I like your choice of words…the solitude of a windless snowy environment. Randy
The walking sticks are a great keepsake for your family and friends. I appreciated receiving it. I used it a number of times while “doggin'” for deer. Another friend gave me one for my birthday some time ago. I have many fond and enjoyable memories from nightime walks.
Mr. Smail,
I always enjoy hearing about your adventures from my father, Randy Tost. The mentioning of the Tost stick was an added bonus. I’m always amazed at how much wildlife abounds in the woods. I live in Wisconsin and took a hike a few weeks back during a warm snap (15-20 degrees, we were at -11 the other morning). I didn’t see or hear anything until I found a melted patch of snow from a past sleeping deer and laid down. In about 20 minutes, I became part of the wildlife, and the squirrels began to dance and banter in the branchy canopy. Deer began to pass through and chickadees bounced to and fro. There is nothing like watching creation in its full glory.
If you are ever passing through the Burlington, WI area, you have a place to stay… with plenty of good woods to enjoy. -Seth Tost
Seth,
I am honored to hear from you. Your father mentions his family often. He is proud of you all and I am sure you feel the same way about him. I thank you and appreciate your comments and offer and, maybe, someday we will meet. Keep warm and enjoy the great outdoors!!!
One more thing…..”Mr.” is too formal….call me just plain old “Larry” Take care!