a hazy shade of winter

It seems like it's all over. And - in complete, honest truth - I am very sad.

We’ve had an odd mix of weather this winter. Very cold. Lots of snow and sleet and hail. Lots of overcast, dreary days. All in all: Just the way I like it.

For the last couple of months – nearly every day, with the exception of these last couple of weeks – it has looked like snow. If not in temperature – in appearance. It reminds me of one of my very favorite places. And makes me long to be there. My cousin was recently there - in New York - and I loved following her daily updates. All the while daydreaming that I was there, too. One place that, at this time of the year, I deem close to heaven.

This photo was taken from the portico at our front door - which, incidentally, I also love. My favorite part of the whole house ... and something I truly wish I could just hack off and take with me whenever we do move on from this place.

I’ll always treasure this winter - and try to hold the memory of it close to my heart when summer arrives. I relish in the cleansing power of the winter season - when everything is so crisp and pure.

As the seasons slowly begin to change, I am trying to find new bits that I can call ‘heavenly’. Trying to find the beauty in the world around me. The joy in my everyday.

Because - there’s lots of it.

Note: As soon as I finished writing this (but before I posted it), it got blistery cold again. Bring on the hate mail ... because I was the one praying for this. Have I told you recently that I believe in the power of prayer? Yes, I do.