Wild fluctuation in weather this week, with a chinook bringing drizzle at temperatures near freezing, followed by an Alberta Clipper with near-blizzard conditions, now frigid temperatures at -36°C this morning as an Arctic low settles in. About 2.5cm of new snow, with the snowpack at about 27cm.  Lake ice has increased, and a major ice road across Lake of the Woods is now open. There was increased snowmobile traffic on Lower Black Sturgeon Lake this weekend.  The ski hill had reduced open hours due to extreme cold warnings. Bush walking trails are in good condition; trails through open areas needed repacking with snowshoes due to snow drifts. New sighting of 5 male Pine Grosbeaks at the feeder this week.  The Purple Finches predominate. Three deer are regular visitors to the compost bin.