What do you think of when you think of winter?

winter serenity

Snow. I grew up on the prairies and snow is a given there in winter, not like in Victoria, where I now live. This year we got lucky. Looks like we might even have snow on the big day. That would be only the second or third time since I moved here 15 years ago.

Christmas lights. Lovely in the holiday season, but In Victoria some home owners leave their lights up (and on) well into January and even February. I like it because winters tend to be a bit dull and rainy here, and the lights add considerable cheer to an evening’s walk or drive.

Celebration. Connecting with friends and family, even if only by phone.

Memories of Christmases and winters past. Toboganning and skiing. Extended family get togethers. Christmas carols and concerts. Here's a carol from my childhood I've found myself singing quite a lot in these days of snow softly falling.

To me winter also speaks of dormancy and gestation, a turning inward, a time to reflect on what is past and clear space for what is to come.