Recently I’ve seen a lot of posts being shared about forgetting Thanksgiving. Last month there were Facebook posts being shared about snow in October is caused by people decorating too early. Today on my drive home I pulled into our suburban neighborhood to see the first house on the way in has a MASSIVE Christmas tree in their front window all lit up. Here is my take on the subject…
You do you!
So many people share posts all year long about sucicide awareness, mental illness, depression, checking in on loved ones, etc. Yet the winter season is upon us, at least around here, and suddenly many are putting people down for what makes them happy. If decorating you own home for a holiday you love makes you happy, DO IT! (And share photos with me will ya?)
I don’t always get around to decorating as much as I would like to for any holiday. Working closer to home this year decorating is on my list of wants. But, being pregnant, working full time, and having a puppy at home means that realistically it has yet happen. Halloween pumpkins were purchased the weekend before, painted with hand turkeys the weekend after, and are still waiting to be turned into pie.
My dog Kia who LOVED snow. 
My first year in college my life plan fell apart, the first of many times. I parted ways with the boy I was supposed to move in with. I found myself alone, in a new city, few friends around, and a feeling that my world was out of control. One evening I went to the store and on the way home decided to detour to the downtown area. As I drove around in the freshly falling snow I admired the glow of the street lamps decorated with their holiday wreaths. I looked around and noticed the calm feeling all around. The gentle way the flakes fell from the sky covering everything in a soothing blanket of white. Just then I realized it would all be ok. Life was never going to go as planned. I would be strong enough to conquer anything it had to give me. Times would be rough but no matter what there would always be a way through. Take time to cry, mourn, and then get up and figure it out. Snow is my reminder of this every year and no matter how inconvenient it can be, there is always a sense of calm it brings with it. Even in October.
I think this is how I knew I was meant to live near the mountains. Starting in September and lasting through May, or longer, I can look towards the mountains and still see hints of snow. Last year I began to learn how to snowboard but snowshoeing is still a favorite winter activity. Trudging through the snow when all is peaceful and quiet really cannot be beat. Sometimes you just need a little peace, nature, and time to think in the quiet that snow brings.
Hopefully something about the winter season brings you hope and joy. If you need a little more joy sooner in the season, I support you. If you struggle to find joy in the season I hope that changes but I also hope you won’t ruin someone else’s happiness.