At this time of year I eagerly track the patterns of the sun in anticipation of longer days.
Thinning out those weedy pines on the hill was a great step in extending my southern exposure. I get sun on the house at any time of day now before 4pm, even if just a sliver of sunlight - when the sky is clear anyway.
We've had enough dramatic weather in the past two months to make up for a whole season if you ask me. Snow, wind, and rain storms, 13 power outages, and that last cold spell down from Canada made me feel like I lived in the arctic!
I've been tested on my pioneer skills (and tolerance) enough to make me wonder if another location would be any easier. But in the words of the Abraham collective; you take your (energy) vibration with you wherever you go. So until I can master this lifestyle with ease, I shall just carry on here.
The best thing that happened this winter was the purchase and use of a light box for the symptoms of S.A.D. (Seasonal Affective Disorder). I wasn't sure to what degree I had this but learned about it in a terrific book called "Winter Blues" by Norman E. Rosenthal, MD. (By the way, the fourth edition has updated information).
I feel like a new person! I feel like the person I am during the longer, lighter days. Energetic, inspired, confident. There's a lot to be said for a balanced brain chemistry!
With this new tool I am better able to cope with the challenges that come along here.
After the last snowstorm and nearly 3 day power outage, I got busy working with my local development on an emergency call list. I'm happy to say that I have passed through all the red tape so far and will soon be implementing the plan. We will ask residents if they would like to be on the list, to have someone call or check on them during outages or storms. A designated representative from each division will cover their area. Sometimes just a human voice that cares is a comfort to those that live alone.
It's a great concept that I hope will catch on in other housing developments and small communities.
Work continues on the kitchen, and small steps are getting accomplished. I'm taking pictures of the progress and will post them when I'm nearer to completion.
In the meantime, I hope you are all well and getting off to a great start in this new year!
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