Lion or lamb?

Today’s balmy weather will end with a sharp drop in temperature and strong winds. Which leads me to wonder if it means March is coming in like a lion or lamb? It doesn’t really matter which it is in the big scheme of things, just the idle observations of humans about the weather. Conversation. I am feeling particular energy spurts, though not very sustained ones, and not ones that make me want to workout! The longer days are getting a foothold, the days are turning towards spring.

The coziness of being inside is drawing to a close. Yet we will still have more winter weather roll in. Lion or lamb, March can be unpredictable, full of good surprises and wild or mild weather.

As we close

Snow covered rock rimmed with ice in a stream

February’s final days are here. It has been a snowy month and yet there is not much snow on the ground. The sun has been out just enough to start the melting process. It by no means is signaling the end of winter, just a hiatus to remind us that no season lasts forever. I am hoping for a few more days of snow shoeing, though I might need to head further north in order to find enough snow.

When the month began it rolled out in front of me with ample time for everything. Now, once again, I am finding there was less accomplished than I expected. It happens every month, I shoot high for getting things done, too high. Yet, at the close, I am able to see that I got done what I could and a few things I hadn’t expected. I figure any progress is progress nonetheless.

Riders

Digital art of subway riders

The subway holds a wonderful collection of stories as it moves from station to station. The tales overlap as people get on and off, mingling in ways we can’t quite understand. Each person wrapped in their own thoughts as the platforms flash by and the disembodied voice announces each upcoming stop.

I haven’t been on a subway in over 6 years, yet I can hear the rattle of the approaching trains and the buskers music echoing along the platform. Feel the whoosh of air coming down the tunnel, smell that odd metallic and fume scent. It is all part of the subway experience of which the people are one more moving part.

When I would take the subway it was a means to an end, not an ongoing commute, so that may well color my view. If I had to do it daily no doubt the interest would wane as it would become a slog. But for that stretch of time it was an interesting slice of life.

Wintering

Snowy sunset village scene

We are into those February days where a storm seems to roll through with some regularity. Tuesday seems to be the day of choice this year, as we will have 3 in a row this week. The snow will add a blanket to my plants, keeping them insulated from any biting cold that might settle in. It is nice to be able to spend cozy days with a book or in my studio when it is stormy.

I have gotten out twice on my snowshoes, and hope to get in a several more this month. That is the sort of exercise I enjoy, outdoors moving in the fresh air. Before the snow flies tomorrow I might be able to squeeze in a quick trek. The tracks today at the park showed cross country skiers, walkers and snowshoers had all felt the call to get outside, yet no one else was in sight.

When I am at work I can watch the flakes through the huge windows, it is a bit like being in a snow-globe. I have a friend who has equipped their home to age in place. They added an elevator which will allow them to enjoy one of the most amazing rooms I have ever seen. Perched on the roof is a glass sitting room that looks out over the treetops, not a neighbor in sight. The room, complete with a wood stove, would be my choice of places to watch a snowstorm from.

Shoe-ing

Snowy park with split rail fence by tree.

Now that snow is covering the ground with more building up, it is snow shoe time! Last year we didn’t get out at all, the snow fell and melted before a snow shoe date could be set. I enjoy being outdoors trekking around and seeing nature and the quiet. The pace appeals to me, the workout without the blandness of indoor exercise, and the natural movement of my arms and legs, this is how I like to do fitness. It is different from just going out our back door as we did at our old house, there we had woods for acres and acres. Which also meant more branches and undergrowth to get tangled in. Now we have the park just down the street, full of open space to enjoy, plus other nearby trails we can trek.

Though my work schedule has more hours, and I am trying to get art and DIY things done, I hope to get out at least 2 times a week. Today’s snowstorm means a fresh cover awaits, with another storm next weekend. The snow will only last so long as we are already moving passed midwinter.

Sunday art

Mixed media piece

As we close out January I am looking back at how tumultuous the month was. And being grateful for how quiet the last couple weeks have been, it has allowed me the chance to breathe easily and feel hopeful. Not foolishly so, but somewhat, as I know there is an almost insurmountable amount of work that needs doing to get us back from the brink. From conspiracy theories, militias, racist groups, churches who preach that way, and those unwilling to accept anyone not just like themself.

Will we be willing and able to do the work, to grow together is the question. Failing to do so, we do at our own peril.