The caption on this picture sums up just how I feel – as we slowly work our way through the cold – dark days of January – “I wasn’t made for winter”

I guess we find it easier to get through that first winter month in December – for it’s filled with the anticipation – and the busyness – of Christmas.

But the weeks pass – quickly followed by the reality of long dreary days – seemingly full of darkness and cold – the sparkle of Christmas past.

As this quote puts it – “January is the month when everyone goes into hibernation mode – and life becomes a never-ending cycle of work – sleep – and repeat” – and so often – that is really how it seems – as one long day passes another.

It can be a hard time for many – so often with illnesses – lack of energy – and a sense of almost despair – with the arrival of the warmer weather seeming so far away.

For me – on those days when I struggle – I need to remind myself – simply to take care of myself – and to recognise that I am not alone – and that these winter months affect us all.

I also need to reach within myself – to draw on that which lies within - to see what I can learn – and just what winter can teach me.

For as this quote says – “Winter reminds us the truth that – If we can endure the coldest of times – Nothing can dim the warmth of our spirit – The air may be cold – but it can’t – Extinguish the fire within our souls – Remember – you are strong and capable”

And of course – we do get those occasional sunny days. It was such a day yesterday – and even a short walk – feeling that sunshine – and drinking in the fresh air – lifted my spirits – making me happy.

I love those – ‘Happiness Is’ captions – and this one fits just how I felt – “Happiness is – the feeling of warm sunlight hitting you – on a cold winter’s day”

I’m also reminded of how nature deals with the seasons – and how new life grows – even as winter occurs. The beauty of Spring – and the glories of Summer – grow through the winter dark and cold – even though I cannot see them.

The same can be true for me too – as I go through the dark cold days – feel that it’s a struggle simply to survive at times – I can decide to “Grow through – what I go through” – and emerge strong and beautiful because of those dark winter days.

Blessings – Lois