winter | one_local

Timer on:

Respite. Winter is my respite. That must seem odd for some folk, but I enjoy the long winter nights with warm fires crackling in the fireplace, giving the living room a soft, warm glow. The respite is from gardening, mowing, weed-eating, bugs, ticks and never-ending weeds. Much as I love gardening, if I lived where it was warm and mild year-round I am know there would be far fewer gardens and fence rows to weed-eat.

I enjoy the seasonal work and rhythms of four seasons, and the respite that each one gives to the other. Inside winter projects are mostly fun and creative for me. Spring is now on it’s way. It is nearing time to switch gears and get back out with the plants and weeds. I have sure enjoyed my winter respite.

Timer off.

Only in winter, and even then, it does not happen often nor stay too long. However, this past Monday through Wednesday was a different story. An ice storm that kept our part of the world heavily clothed in its command for two full days, and one night.

There was a frightfully, intriguing appeal to being out in that winter storm. Venturing out several times with camera in hand and hoping to capture an image of this beautiful, powerful storm kept me busy looking and watching. It seemed to want an audience. As if it wanted to remind us of just how helpless and small we truly are. Breaking, falling limbs, and trees crashing all around. First a small, creaking sort of sound, followed by a mighty rip of wood falling without knowing from where or to where. Best not to get too close. And the air. It was filled with the sweet smell of fresh split pine. How full the atmosphere was of that woodsy, comforting smell.

This magnificent storm captured my attention and imagination. Perhaps my images will convey part of its mighty story to you.