Winter rest lingers...

Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10

The only others sound’s the sweep, Of easy wind and downy flake. Robert Frost

In winter we lead a more inward life. Henry David Thoreau

Usually by early February, I’m weary of winter and ready for spring and summer, missing the warmer weather outdoor activities. This year is an exception as I’m still relishing the relatively quiet season of winter.  Why is that?   Was it that 2025 was a year of overcommitting combined with the challenge of time involved in starting a new business and blog? Has it been that it’s been an unnaturally dry winter in northern Nevada, so there’s been plentiful sunshine with fewer dark cloudy days?  Is it that I’m just getting older and appreciating each season more?   Whatever the reason, this winter, I’m continuing to savor this less hurried season.

That is not to say that I’ve not thought about spring at all.  In fact, in the last couple weeks, I’ve considered a small-scale backyard improvement project.  I’ve done my winter plant trimming to prepare for spring growth.  I’ve even had fun perusing online catalogs to order a few summer bulbs.  So, I AM anticipating spring, but the anticipation is a pleasant diversion rather than an overwhelming yearning.

In fact, I’m hoping for more needed rain and snow and relish the thought of being inside with candles and winter ambiance lighting. This February, I’m not impatiently waiting for winter to be over and spring to arrive.  I’m appreciating the slower pace of life right now.  Now I know that many of you in the Midwest and East are probably more than ready for winter to be over; even so, there is a peace in enjoying the calm of winter.

So make a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea.  Snuggle up with a good book or favorite movie. Play board games with family or friends. Relax! Rest! The crazy busy fun days of summer will be here before you know it!