It's been a hard, cold winter this winter of 2014. Lake effect snows, followed by a "Polar Vortex" and  a blizzard, followed by more lake effect snows and weeks of sub-zero temperatures.  

In a way, it all feels good and right to have plenty of snow, wind, and ice in January. I'm not really complaining. But it does take it's toll on us. Especially when the temps hover below zero and the sun does not show his face for weeks at a time. Going outside to get some "fresh air and sunshine" is not an option. Ski's and snowshoes sit dusty and neglected. The best thing to do is hunker down (hibernate anyone?), eat nourishing warming food, drink pots of tea….and READ.  

Oh the joy of sitting with a book by the wood stove without guilt or reserve! I have gotten to know Abraham Lincoln  very well - have learned all about the workings of bees and the duties of those who lovingly "keep" them -and have learned how to make a fence out of saplings (not that I AM going to make a fence out of saplings…but now I know..) I have become somewhat (mostly) sedentary. 

Oh these long, dark, and cold days of January.  All as it should be.

~j