Another old-timer and school friend, Eva Rayner of Battleford, passed away at the age of 91. Sympathy to the Rayner and Custer families on Eva’s passing. She was the only daughter in a family of seven. Her parents were the late Dave and Linda Custer. She was born and raised in Baljennie and attended Baljennie School. Later she married Morris Rayner. They had a family of two children and farmed in the area for a few years before moving to British Columbia and then back to Paynton. After her husband passed away, Eva moved back to Battleford. She was skilled with needle and thread and a sewing machine.
Warmer days and dry winds have taken care of the snow. The ice on the North Saskatchewan and Battle Rivers has cleared off and there is an occasional glimpse of green grass here and there. Watch out for potholes. There are lots of them.
The warm prairie hills will be alive with purple crocus and white snowdrops. It will not take long for the dandelions to show up.
The warmer weather has seen the return of recreational vehicles such as motor homes and motorcycles to the roads.
Spring birds are returning. In spite of the cold days, the skies were filled with Canada geese, crows, gulls and ducks. The geese started nesting as soon as they came back. If you accidentally come across a nest, look out for Daddy Goose. He can get mean while protecting eggs or baby geese.
Ticks should also be on your list of things to watch for. The season runs from April to the end of July. They lurk in tall grass, weeds and shrubs, waiting for a chance to latch on.
Also awakening are maple bugs, which are harmless, but a big nuisance.
With it being so dry, wild fires can be a big hazard. The grass and brush areas are tinder dry. With the winds we seem to experience daily, a small fire can be out of control quickly. Take care with burning barrels and pits. Fire bans are in place in some areas. If you are burning, make sure you have some water or a fire extinguisher handy.
