Embrace the Winter

I've read a few blogs lately and heard people comment about how much they hate Winter, they hate the cold, they hate the snow, blah blah blah. First of all, we live in Central Illinois. We have four seasons. We have Winter. It should come as no surprise. Of course I complain about the Summer, so I guess I should look at it from the other side. But think about it. The starkness of Winter makes us more appreciative of the lushness of Summer. I enjoy Winter. I like the lacy silhouettes of the trees without their leaves. I enjoy the grey days without the Sun. Probably wouldn't want it to be that way for long, but sometimes those days are important. It goes without saying that I love the snow. When it is snowing, I get a feeling in my core. It's like magic. I enjoy the brisk, cold weather. I am saying this from the warmth of my home and realize that there are those who are less fortunate than me. I love seeing all the birds at the bird feeder. So do the cats! I told Geo last night that is one of the reasons why I put seed out for the birds - to entertain the kitties. And the squirrels entertain Lucky (and drive her crazy. Not sure that's such a good thing.). I enjoy seeing all the birds, especially the Cardinals and the Juncos. Grandma Highball always said that when the Juncos were out we'd have snow. She's been pretty much on the mark with that prediction. I haven't seen many Chickadees. I'd love to see Cedar Waxwings, but we don't have any trees with berries on them, so not sure that I will see them. I enjoy seeing the snow covered fields and the dim light in the sky. And best of all - there aren't any frigging mosquitoes!! That's what I hate most about Summer. To be honest, I think I enjoy Winter more than Summer. Summer seems to carry with it expectations. Expectations to go and do things. In the Winter, you're allowed to hole up inside and hibernate. I love the feel of going inward, of being in the home, of contemplation.