Deep in a fog

It's been a long time since a Smith Lake Sunset has been posted and it looks like we'll have to wait longer.  The Lake was shrouded by fog and mist all weekend.  Late on Friday afternoon one lonely ice house across the snowy lake could barely be seen through the mist.

Ice house in the fog.

Saturday was much the same.  The far shore was invisible until the breeze picked up between 3 and 4 PM and cleared some of the fog away so that the far shoreline came into view.  The unseasonably warm temperatures have melted most of the snow, and anywhere from an inch to a foot of standing water is on top of the lake ice.  In some places the water is deep enough to ripple in the breeze, and gives the illusion that the lake is open and ready for boating.

Standing water on top of the lake ice.

The mild temperatures were perfect for evening campfires, and it was not too difficult to keep the cabin warm.  About an hour of ice fishing was attempted, but it was just too wet.  The fish weren't particularly hungry either.

As we headed  home Sunday afternoon, we saw an unfortunate pick up truck submerged in Lake Mille Lacs right across Hwy 169 from our road.  The driver made it out of the truck without injury from what I hear, but only about the top foot of the truck could be seen.  The Sheriff was on hand and a tow truck was getting into position to retrieve the vehicle.  A reminder that the ice is not safe for vehicles, especially after this December thaw.