The warmth of the joyous holidays of Christmas and News Year's Day are behind us. I suppose that leaves most of us looking forward to the natural warmth we see in the world outside our windows. Who among us doesn't enjoy the early flocks beginning their migrations, rising sap that brings a faint and sudden redness to young branches, and a impatient crocus popping out of leaf litter. Earlier this week as I completed my astronomical calendar for the new year I was reminded that January 9 - 12 is on average the coldest period of the year in this part of the Georgia Piedmont.
This year the three days seem to be living up to its reputation quite well but tomorrow shows some promise. Outside my window at midafternoon it's barely 40 degrees and the light rain and drizzle hasn't stopped since sunrise. This kind of day compels me to abandon the office and move to a southern exposure in a room walled with windows. Overlooking our woods there, the opportunity for distraction is high but matched by the opportunity for inspiration. I'll take the risk.
For most friends in the eastern United States there's a good chance that your dates for the depth of winter correspond reasonably with mine. And if you're like me, don't care much for winter, and haven't made it to tropical Florida this year maybe its time to celebrate the coming of the migrations, rising sap, and renegade flowers. It's a bit late today now that darkness is upon us but think ahead to tomorrow and find a southern-facing window overlooking a cherished landscape large or small. Get comfortable. Relax and look at it. In time you'll hear it, smell it, taste it, even touch it. A bit of George Winston's piano, soft and distant, may help set the mood.
It may be winter and the season of rest but landscapes are very much alive. Stay warm!
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