Winter's Message
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Winter's Message
Sherry Jennings
Winter has gotten off to a slow start this year in New England. Although there have been many very cold nights, it is only recently that there has been measurable snow and now three storms in one week. Suddenly a whole new world of activities opens up. There are sledding, snow shoeing, skiing, and for grown-ups there is snow shoveling.
There is the beauty of looking out into a pure white snow-covered vista. Uncompleted garden tasks are buried. Rather than being a reminder of work undone, the uncut dried flower heads of the perennials delight as they dance in the wind and reveal the beauty of their dried geometry. Toys and tools left scattered in the yard won't appear until the snow has melted to reveal autumn's unconsciousness.
The world outside is literally black and white, the white surface spread across the land cut through by the black of tree trunks and limbs. Only the pines dare to hold out against this two-color landscape. The complex images of colorful flowers; foliage of many shades of green; rocks and stones of all sizes, shapes, colors, and textures offer us a sensory feast in the summer. This winter landscape is simple, easy to imbibe. It asks little of us but to enjoy and stay safe.
Winter in New England is a time to hunker down, contemplate, assess any situations that need attention, read an exciting book, take an armchair vacation. Maybe sort out the overflowing recipe folder, clean out the everything drawer, sort out a closet, or just do nothing for a little while. That is allowed. Daydreaming is a necessary part of life.
If you are thinking of looking for sales on winter gear for next year, look for the ones with the longest zippers, fewest snaps. With well-designed gear you may be surprised how even a two-year-old can participate in getting dressed to go outside.
Yes! Winter's message is keep it simple! Simplify your life; go for the essential!
As for the children, the snow offers fun and play once they are dressed in all the layers and it isn't dangerously cold. Even a three-year-old can be out in 10°F for a few minutes. A bit of fresh air can soothe a weary soul whether adult or child, deflate conflicts, offer new perspectives, deliver a burst of energy for the tasks yet to come.
Yes, it is winter! Keep it simple!
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