So, one would think that, after almost 30 years living in the Sunshine State, I would hate winter. Before I moved up here, I was very honest about the fact that I wasn’t looking forward to living in freezing cold again. However, as I sit in the middle of one of the coldest winters in Chicago’s recent history, I must admit – I’m loving it. I love the feeling of serenity that winter has brought into my life. I love the sound of snow crunching under my feet as I walk. I love the crisp air, sunrises over a half-frozen lake, and the ice floating in the Chicago River. Don’t get me wrong, these negative temperatures are pretty brutal. Yet, it really does make me appreciate the sun and its warmth so much more. After a couple of days with temperatures in the single digits or less, those 25-30 degree days are just perfect. Of course, I’m sure a large part of my enjoyment comes from two things. the first is that I live in an apartment building so I don’t have to shovel sidewalks. The second is that I have chosen to not drive since moving up here, so I’m not navigating a car on dangerous roads. Whatever the reasons are, my first winter back in the Windy City has been a rejuvenating affair. Good thing, since I still have at least two months to go until spring.
What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.
-John Steinbeck
Words from the Long Run 