Cold Weather

We had a surprise visit last weekend; 60-degree weather, spilling into Monday with the low 70’s! To top it off my son, daughter-in-law and two adorable granddaughters, drove over to stay with us. We had a wonderful visit before they left for home, spring following shortly behind them, leaving us with quickly falling temperatures.

Much to my dismay winter has returned, temperatures in the 20’s. The wind is blowing and snow is threatening us as it flurries through the air. My house is warm, the chairs are soft and comfy, but I love being outside.

Piling on my warm winter clothes, I head out to our trails.

The ground is once again hard beneath my feet, the cold air blows against my face, but I’m grateful my legs still choose to carry me. Approaching the tall pines, I see the owl fly by, landing in a nearby tree. I stop to watch, there is a large nest a couple of trees over. She flies away, possibly to deter me from the nest. Because of my warm hat, I can’t hear her wings, yet her grace is very apparent.

As I walk on, my winter gloves are refusing to keep my fingers warm, so I curl my fingers up into my palms. I quicken my pace in an attempt to generate heat and warmth through my body. The added circulation is good for my heart and my soul.

Dried, curled leaves lay on the ground and new green moss are dusted with snow, adding more colors to God’s palate. Then I see several tiny white pines sprouting from the ground. New growth! Spring will come!

If I chose to stay in my warm comfy house, I would have missed all of this. I have lots of windows to view the wonderful outdoors, but that only requires one of my senses, sight. Make a choice to use all of your senses, choose to participate in nature any way you are able. I’m glad I did. Remember...Don’t Live Old!