The Doldrums of Winter

There are many things about winter that are depressing and somber.  The bone chilling winds, rain, and continuous darkness can play tricks with our moods.   Even the necessity to bundle and cover exquisite naked bodies with layers and layers of clothes can become depressing and tedious, especially when trying to dress children just to go outdoors for a bit.   Most people describe winter as “feeling cooped up” and “cold to the bone”, and rarely relish the beauty of the season.

 

Remember as a kid, the anticipation of a snow day from school?  Nothing could compare to it.  It was a “hooky” day, one where we were supposed to be in school, but the weather gods had granted us a reprieve and given us this gift of a “snow day”.  Have you ever watched a child play in the snow for the first time, or catch a snowflake on their tongue?  Nothing can describe it except pure excitement and wonder.

There are also many other beautiful things about winter.  One of my favorites is warming in front of a fire, and cuddling with someone special, perhaps reading a book or listening to music.  Not feeling the need to talk, or entertain, but just to “be” and enjoy the glow of the flames and the warmth they provide while enjoying the closeness of another person, without having to engage with or act upon anything with them.

Winter is a time for hearty soups simmering on the stove, with just brown cornbread or crusty rolls for dipping into the broth or to be slathered with butter.   Sipping a margarita cannot compare to holding onto a mug of coffee or hot chocolate to warm your hands, while slowly sipping its decadent contents to warm your insides.  Even hearty meals like lasagna, or chicken pot pie taste better with a chill in the air than they do in the heat of summer.

 

Many people like winter for the promise of new beginnings for the upcoming Springtime.  While this is a wonderful ideal, while it is here, I personally like watching the snowflakes fall, or the ice crystals form.     Did you ever notice that even weeds and brush look beautiful gleaming in the sunlight, covered in ice crystals?   Snow covers all the dirt and grime of our world and blends everything into a serene monochromatic landscape, now bright and beautiful and pristine.

 

Yes, while Winter is not my favorite season, there are many things about it that I do truly appreciate, and before you know it, the daffodils and buttercups that have been slumbering all winter begin blooming,  marching us into Spring.