Oooh, do you feel it? That chill in the air. The one that causes you to bump the thermostat up another degree. We woke up to drizzle, and a cool thirty-five degree morning. As a kid, I hated days like this, but as an adult I look forward to them — well, as long as I’m not outside working in it. I’m not a fan of winter in general. Fall and spring are actually my favorite seasons. But those drizzly, shadowy, days are welcome once in a while. In fact, I’ll take a week of drizzle and rain just about any time. Usually we need the moisture in almost any form.
If I had to choose between summer and winter, I’d prefer summer. I just never really enjoyed the cold, and summer feels more relaxed. Summer makes me think of the mountains or the coast. Well, come to think of it, winter makes me think of the mountains or the coast, too. Anyway, when we had kids at home, it seemed there was less tension during the summer. The kids were happier because there was no school or homework. We were happier because there was no school or homework. Although we had summer activities, they weren’t as intense or stressful and we weren’t in such a rush to get there.
Shoot, I was probably just as disappointed as the kids when school started. It always seemed like summer buzzed by way too fast. But this past summer, even with no kids at home, was one of the longest summers I’ve ever experienced. And I’m sure folks who had kids out of school in April felt like it was dragging on and on. This stuff we’re living with hasn’t made things any easier. Restrictions, masks, anxiety – I’m surprised we haven’t all been just a clump of grumps. Well, I guess we can’t clump with social distancing and all.
However, this morning was a clear indication summer is gone. Strange year, isn’t it? Seems like we skipped spring and fall altogether.
An arctic wave is chilling much of the country. Colorado is hoping snow and rain will put out those fires that have been raging. Ice is predicted across most of the state. Rumor (that’s what you have to call weather forecasts in the Oklahoma Panhandle since it can change on a dime) has it that we could see some snow. It seemed like last week we finally got cool enough to have visions of chili, stew, and chicken and noodles tempting our stomachs. Now we’re thinking of log fires and blankets, coveralls and coats.
Well, wherever you are, I hope you are warm and with family. I hope you stay safe and well. In a world with illness, contention, and disillusionment, I hope you focus on what is important in your lives. Bundle up. Enjoy a moment, even if it is just for a moment. Drink some coffee or hot chocolate. Eat something rich, warm, and comforting. Think of those you love. Pray for those who hurt.
Winter is coming. Spring waits beyond.
