Journal: In defense of winter, and why it is wonderful
I just got back from a very fine time in the Bahamas. Not just the Bahamas, but a very, very pretty part of the Bahamas. And it was... lovely. White sand, aqua seas, warm, golden light — a colorful feast for the senses.
I could not wait to get home.
Blue at the Lake's edge
Not just to be home, and all its attendant greatness: the pets, my own bed, our miraculous coffee maker — but to get back to winter before it's over. I understand that this makes me very strange indeed and I have lost a lot of you.
But it's exhausting really — enduring people who feel the need to tell you its 74° where they are when you post a picture of the fresh, lovely snow. Mind you, you weren't complaining about said snow, it's just their default position. These same individuals are curiously quiet when their heat and humidity tops the nineties, maybe because they are slowly being suffocated in the oppressive heat. And so I am continually deflecting and smiling through the endless, well-meaning references to Paradise! while in warmer climes. Well, paradise comes in many forms, is specific to the individual and I believe, internal not external. So, I make no apologies for loving winter.* A few reasons why, in no particular order:
- Snow!
- Boots, I love to wear boots
- Leg shaving becomes optional
- Fondue in the fondue pot
- Fires in the fireplace
- Twinkle lights reflected on snow
- Christmas & Christmas movies
- Cold weather microbrews
- Holiday cards from friends
- Cashmere sweaters
- Wintery comfort food
- Sledding and maybe even skiing
- The smell of wood smoke in the air
- Happy, energetic dogs
- Brown liquor tastes better in the winter
- The air is cleaner, fresher and feels good
- A brief respite from insects and their abiding love of me
- The blue, clean, gorgeous winter light
- A perfectly good excuse to stay in, and
- The opportunity to do all those indoor jobs, ensures summer is guilt free
And Cheryl reminded me of one more!
- No stinky dogs
Which reminded me of one more:
- When Gillian comes in with the winter cold on her fur, she smells heavenly, intoxicating. Of the earth and pine and wood smoke, earning her the nickname Scotch Bonnet.
The Round Church in Richmond. Thank you Richard Ennis
*For the record, I love all the seasons. Everyone of them. Just because I love winter does not mean I love the other seasons any less. Spring, I'm talkin' to you.
