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?

There Comes A Day

There comes a day in winter that hints of spring! A day like today when for a small window, the sun sparkles like gems in the white beach sand and reflects back a warm glow from the melting snow. Although the wind pushes like a hand to your back, you know without a doubt that nature takes one step closer on its circadian journey toward spring.



It's a day unparalleled in the winter of discontent.

The Weather Outside Is Frightful

Can this only be the beginning of February? From the amount of snow, sleet, and freezing temperatures, New England has turned tundra-like in landscape. But what does this kind of weather do to people for an extended period of time?

We are New Englanders and 10 degrees can take on a balmy aspect when the winds don't blow but they have ... unyielding vents of cold, seeping into layers of sweaters, jackets and hats. Bitter beams of pale yellow sunlight, casting vague earthly shadows ... oh, the memory of scorching asphalt through flip flops. Seeking shade instead of heat huddles.

While I personally have not visited a tundra, the intense feeling of being blocked by the elements is evidenced by my perception of a never ending season. And, to add fuel that that non-fire (sorry about mixing metaphors), the economy is also signaling a freezing up of sorts. Getting squeezed into a place of unrestricted fear with no place to run!

Ultimately, in times like this, going inward is the only safe haven. And, by doing that gain the grace to press onward with plans, goals and dreams. Moving forward with new ideas and prospects for a better and warmer tomorrow. No one or thing can take that away unless you give permission.