Minnesota was just ranked Number 1 as having the worst winters. I'll admit that the winters can be challenging. While we have an exceptional snow removal system and efficient, effective highway maintenance, it can sometimes be a challenge to go to work or run errands.
We certainly have winters of extremes: lots of snow, below zero temperatures, wind chill WAY below zero, and even freezing rain/ice. Just in the last few days, we've had freezing rain which coated the trees and cars in ice, and now we have below zero temperatures.
It's times like this that I am very happy to be retired. I don't have to experience a white-knuckle drive to work in the morning or freeze while waiting for my car to heat up. I also don't have to go to work in the dark and return home in the dark-never seeing the light of day. Contributing to that, we've also had a lot of gray, gloomy days which can really take a toll on your mood. It's one of the reasons we are all so Vitamin D deprived and take supplements.
One of the things I love about retirement is taking the time to just be in the moment and look around me. Today I am enjoying the sunshine pouring into our living room. There's something special about sunshine in the winter. It can definitely lift your mood, bring a smile to your face, and combat depression. It also provides a lot of warmth as it streams through the windows even though it is below zero outside. However, I particularly love the beauty of winter in the sunshine!
Anyone who knows me is aware that I love to take pictures! One of my favorite things to do is to try to capture light. Winter sunshine is so very beautiful. It brightens the snow almost blindingly. It reflects off of ice to create a different view of the world around us. The white orb in the sky against the blue sky surrounded by white snow and gray trees provides color in an otherwise drab world. I am very grateful for the sunshine and for the opportunity to bathe in its warmth and beauty. This is my joy today!
Have you found your joy today?
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