Years ago, I wrote ourselves a little Winter's Manifesto. It was enormously helpful at the time, in reminding myself of all the things that mattered, and that helped me find joy in the darker days of winter. I don't know if it's busier days, or our move to this farm, or just plain age and time, but February doesn't carry the same weight on my mind that it once did. Lambing season and tapping trees for syrup are right around the corner. I know that our seed orders are being packed, and I've chosen the new trees we'll plant in the spring. I know that it will only be a matter of short weeks before the flurry of springtime activity keeps us busy from the moment we wake up until we fall exhausted into bed at night. I'm excited and ready for those days, but a part of me is quite glad to sit for just a moment longer. February gives us that. The fire going, puzzles and games, yarn in my hands, and all the layers of comfort.
Still, I could use with a bit of color around me these days, I really could. And I've made it a point to do just that - not only with the yarn on my needles (oh, but that is colorful!), but in my work, and in the little bits and pieces around us in the house too. The sight of such color most certainly helps to remind me about what's around the corner, and what's here right now. And I think I'll be able to enjoy winter for as long as she decides to stick around. Judging by this morning's snowfall....well, it might just be a while.
