They say we are going to have a long, cold winter this year.  I think they may be right.  The temperature has dipped suddenly and violently and seems in no hurry to change its mind.

    That’s not good news for me.  I don’t enjoy winter.  The heavy coats and sweaters make me feel leaden and the cold air assaults my ears and throat.  I worry constantly about my family driving on icy roads and walking on slippery sidewalks.  

    Heartier folk shake their heads at me and ask why I don’t move somewhere winterless.  And while the thought is rather appealing, especially as the days get shorter and the snow piles on my boulevard get higher, there is one reason why I have chosen to endure:  

    Winter is the prerequisite for my favourite season, spring. 

     The thawing, warming and  bursting forth of the earth is only possible if first it is frozen, cold and dormant.  

    So I’ll wrap myself up in a few more layers, or curl up in a blanket with a hot cup of tea for a while longer and dream of warmth and sun and blossoms.