Blame it on the Lunar New Year and the vibrant energy of the Fire Horse, or perhaps its simply the slow return of sunlight. Whatever the reason, I have been feeling a growing pull toward creative pursuits beyond writing. Namely, nature journaling on little blank postcards.
Continue readingTag: winter
In Search of Spring
The edges of the snow seem to be receding. Everywhere around me is the sound of water dripping as the snow melts. Soon, it will all be gone. Especially since the high for today is expected to hit 60°F, which feels insanely warm for February. Perhaps I should go for a walk later.
Continue readingWarmth from Within
Snowy days like this make me want to retreat to the kitchen. A place of warmth, of hot coffee brewing (or tea) and the comfort of a good meal. Perhaps a pot is simmering on the stove, filling the house with it’s delicious aroma! However, food is more than just something to fill your belly and stop hunger pangs.
Continue readingMidwinter Rituals
This point in the calendar marks the half way point between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox. In traditions and cultures all around the world, from Christian to pagan and East to West, this date has been a time of celebration. We have made it through the darkest part of the year, inching ever closer to the start of spring, and that seems worthy of momentary pause.
Continue readingThe Promise of Snow
Another busy day has past. At nightfall, a sliver of the waxing crescent moon appeared, hanging in the sky like a giant Cheshire cat. The crimson glow of sunset softly fading into night. Who could imagine such a beautiful sight?
Continue readingEphemeral Snowflakes
Winter’s chill has returned. It’s icy fingers have slowly crept though the old bricks and into the house. My feet are cold as I sit here at my desk to write (even though the heat is set to 70°F). The sun is late getting up today and it’s light slow to fill the sky.
Continue readingA Season of Rest
Yesterday I went for a short walk and noticed that many of the trees had buds on them. Most notably red maple, river birch, and a few others, all quietly waiting for spring’s arrival. Amazing how there is always something at work in nature, even when it seems like everything is dormant.
Continue readingFrom Frost to Thaw Again
Father Winter has returned, bringing with him cold temperatures and bitter wind (high of 28F). The birdsong from yesterday has vanished as if it had never been. I suppose the robins are all huddled in their beds and shan’t come out to play today. A few snowflakes are buffeted about on their way to the ground. They almost seem to fly upwards instead of down.
Continue readingWinter Sunshine
Gently pulled from my slumber by a purring Chibi cat, sparkling sunshine streaming in the window. It was only the night before that moonlight has been in its place. A clear day with bright blue skies. I have grown so accustomed to overcast weather that the sudden change feels almost foreign. A really nice day for January.
Continue readingCozy Indoor Vibes
Looking to the east, the supermoon is rising slowly above the treetops. The setting was a bit eerie, its luminous glow encircled by bare branches. The moon’s path just so happens to be in alignment with my desk window (which is quite unusual). So I got to peek at it numerous times without even getting out of my chair. It was very bright and the moonlight seemed quite strong, enough to cast clearly defined shadows across the sill.
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