loving art, science and creative kids

When I went outside the following day, the crisp cold air was refreshing even as I warmed with the effort of shoveling.  By the time I finished my own and my neighbor’s driveway, though my arms stung and back creaked, it felt good seeing what was accomplished in just a few hours. Best of all was realizing that I recuperated quickly and after lunch was ready to find my sled to go speeding down the hill at the end of my street. Listening to bursts of laughter as adults and children joined in the merriment was heart warming.  And what a pleasure it was to go cross country skiing from my front door. Who needs a car? We must have enough food stocked in our cupboards to last a month.

As an East Coast transplant, past Portland winters have been too mild for me. I miss bundling up in cold weather and being able to play in the snow. I do not like the idea of traveling hours to a winter resort. Perhaps Michigan spoiled me, for I could ski on the farmer’s fields that abutted my house.  With children sound asleep it was easy to take off for an hour of contemplation at 10 pm.  When there was a full moon shining on fresh snow it was a haunting time to silently slide through rows of corn stalks. 

Traditionally, the third week of January is when crocuses start to bloom at the Bishop's Close in Portland.  Ray and I begin our weekly pilgrimage there in order to watch spring unfurl. I wonder what will happen this year? There is no need for deep thoughts when nature makes its presence known. Maybe a new painting will be the result of my observations.