Winter

Winter is magnificent.

It is a time when you can really feel alive. Cold air stimulating rushing blood flow and a robust heartbeat; crisp, red cheeks enhancing your subtle attractiveness, white breath exhaled in exuberance as winter's natural beauty overwhelms.

Snow banks towering like imaginary jewel mountains, reflecting sunlight in spectacular brilliance.

Animals happily scurrying to and fro in search of food and shelter, playfully thumbing their noses at we humans who are bundled against the elements like the Michelin tire man.

Snowmobiles fired up, torching through the woods and across frozen lakes in mad dash or peaceful progress. Allowing access to nature in intimate settings, on nature's terms but softened by our technical mastery of weather.

Windshields, helmets, face masks, gloves, and thermal suits simultaneously protecting our vulnerability and inspiring us to blend in to our surroundings with no fear.

Snowshoeing. Cross country skiing. Meditation in motion, quietly, peacefully working our way through the woods and back to an uncomplicated existence.

Down hill skiing. Adding an element of danger and speed to deep appreciation of the outdoor environment; nerves tense, awareness hyper acute as the wind and the woods and the mountain race by on our way to the bottom. Looking forward to a satisfying beverage by the fire at the end of a day's runs. Warming bones and easy flowing conversation.

Shoveling. Flexing muscles, improving overall health and stamina as we strain to toss the snow over the highest of snow banks. Looking forward to the next storm and even higher snow banks, even more exhilarating challenges.

Lovingly wiping snow off of cars. Employing enough strength to relocate the snow, balanced by the delicate touch required to avoid scratching the finish of these machines that serve us.

Snow ball fights with the kids. Ducking and hiding, shucking and jiving as snow bombs whistle through the air and find their mark. Chest. Arm. Leg. Laughter accompanying every hit; more laughter at shots gone wide.

Winter promotes health. Fun. Wonder. Exploration. Peace. Camaraderie. Contemplation. Healing laughter.

I love winter. Always will.

Winter is magnificent.