The other day, actually it was a few weeks ago now, I woke up to a landscape covered with this white fluffy stuff. Beautiful, very, but also a very clear reminder that a cold winter season is on its way.
I have spent much of my adult life avoiding winter, and this cold white stuff which often comes along with it. For the first time in quite a few years I am spending a winter in my homeland of Canada. I have enjoyed spring, summer, and even the cooler temperatures of fall (which brought amazing leaf colours and opportunities to wear some rad sweaters). I am sure, once I am into it, I will enjoy winter as well.
Canada is privileged as a country to experience such dramatic shifts of season. The seasons are great experiences for learning, growing, and experiencing many different aspects of the world around us. I realize now, after living in temperate climates, that the seasons all have their place in my life. Spring as a time to wonder in new growth, summer to be active, play, and enjoy our amazing waterways. Fall is when we start to slow down, contemplate a bit more, watch the birds a little bit longer. And winter, just as important, I think is our time to rest and rejuvenate our weary bodies after a long year of work and play. It is a also a time to come together as a community, the way a warm fire on a cold night draws a crowd to cuddle in tight. In this way, I look forward to the season ahead.
I have decided to embrace the snow, my new winter boots were an experiment in moccasin making. I've made them white to match the snow. They are waterproof, will be insulated as it gets colder, and make me dance every time I put them on. With this on my feet I will embrace the cold and this seasons restful attitude. I will romp through the snow to wherever a warm fire glows...
