Let it Snow!!

So many of us hate winter. The snow, the ice, the cold weather and wind are not the favorites of many women. I have to tell you, I love winter, and I hope I can convince you to at least be open-minded about this wonderful time of year.

We’ve made it through the holidays and the New Year, and we have a clean slate in front of us. Alright, it’s a chilly, snow-covered clean slate, but it is ours for the making. I say, go out and make it yours!!

Only in winter are the nights so clear and the moon so bright. WIth snow cover, the moon illuminates the woods in my backyard so brightly that I can see shadows from the trees at midnight. This is cool! But you don’t need to wait until midnight: when you take the dogs out for their last walk for the night, stretch your arms up over your head, tip your head back and look up. The stars will amaze you. Now breathe deeply, and take in the cold, clean air. It is exhilliarating!! During the day time, bundle yourself up if you are not used to being out in colder temps, and take a brief walk. Kick some snow, while we have it! The glow in your cheeks will make your complexion beam, and the cold air is wonderful to jumpstart your day or boost you in the afternoon when you need a lift. Just yesterday I had to run into Flemington at lunch time and I purposely left time for a brief walk down Main Street. What a lovely way to break up a hectic, stress-filled day! Not only did I get in 15 minutes of exercise, I also found a neat little coffee shop that offers soymilk latte`s!! And most importantly, I felt my spirits lift and I felt much more able to get through the rest of my Monday.

I challenge all of you winter-haters to get out there, to open your minds and go out there and catch some snow flakes on your tongue! I promise you won’t freeze to death– I hike in temps that are below zero—and you might like the way you feel when you are finished. Don’t worry– you may start out cold, but after 10-15 minutes of walking, your blood will warm you and you will become surprisingly toasty. Go on out there! Chase your kids around the yard and throw snowballs at each other! Play hide and seek with the dogs! Whatever you do, just be present in the moment, and recognize the beauty that can only be found in wintertime. I hope I will have made converts out of you all!

Be warm and well,

Diane