The Sting of Winter

If you have read any of my postings, you will know that winter is a tough time of year for a "summer" person. I am counting the minutes of daylight, planning the summer garden, looking for that perfect pair of flip flops. Two weekends ago, the January thaw gripped the NE and I headed out to Crane's Beach in Ipswich for a ritual walk and wonder.

This past week has been a different landscape, cold ... no that is incorrect, absolutely frigid is better. I hunker down into layers of wool, fleece and other wind stopping fibers. I feel like that kid in a snowsuit who cannot bend her arms because of all the bulky clothes. I insulate.

On the other side of the story, I have completed my taxes and am purging all the paperwork that mysteriously congealed around my workstation. I do believe that paper reproduces when we are not looking. And, I am organizing my work area for optimal production. Sort of clearing the decks for something new and wonderful to enter my world.

This notion goes with my actions toward an uncomplicated life. Getting rid of anything not serving a purpose or delight for me. I am not a hoarder but I did keep things that, perhaps, did not add value to my life. It can all go now because I am taking action on my New Year's intention. It's been 31 days and I am still engaged in making the changes I truly want for myself.

What about you? Where are you in your New Year's intentions?

Resolve to Change

Now that we have officially made it into the next year, I have taken some action on a few ideas, committed to some fundamental life changes, and embraced this new landscape of winter. It's what you do for the new year but this particular year is different. How so? I am committed to making some serious changes in my life.

First change ... laugh a lot. Every. Single. Day. Find the joy in living.

Second change, I like being involved with people who like to do stuff. I mean physically involved with doing something. I sit behind a desk for the better part of the day and it makes me anxious to get outside, head to the gym, or just take some breaks for my mental agility. While this may involve tasks like weeding the garden, rearranging the closets, what I am really talking about is getting some exercise. I used to ride horses and now I am riding the elliptical.

Third change, express myself in what I think, write and wear. I have been a little too dull on the wardrobe piece. I think the stats on the contents of any closet is that you wear only 20% of what is available. I have some great pieces of jewelry which don't seem to get worn too often. Time to mix it up.

Fourth change, keep learning and expanding my knowledge base. It keeps me mentally motivated.

So what have you planned for this year?