Winter

Bleh

Image description: black and white stoneware handbuilt plate with the word “Winter” in black .

Darkness, icy sidewalks, an increase in colds and other sicknesses…bleh. I already feel my energy levels and mood diminishing.

I live downtown. I do not drive or own a car. These are all choices I have made. I don't regret them. But at least for me they add up to “not a winter person.”

The depressing results of the American election have made things worse. My instinct is to cocoon until April.

I know winter can be beautiful but right now I don't want it. I want the ease of walking outside with no need to bundle up, going out without having to have boots all kitted out with spikes to avoid slipping. Most of all I miss the light..on summer evenings we sit on patios and wander around . Winter evenings it's tv and lying around. It's a lot of time without much company. I am not the only one to cocoon. Fewer people are out downtown. In a favourite neighbourhood cafe, we were one of the few customers this morning.

I admire winter people, sporty types who share the canal or cross country ski, but I am not one of you. At this time of year, I want hot tea, warm layers, and warmer conversation. Maybe a little alcohol to lift my spirits. Backgammon, books, naps and thick socks.

I dread winter every year but don't have money to live elsewhere. My medical needs have me needing to live in Ottawa. And I love living here. Just not now.

It's not really that I hate winter. I love what's good about it: the prettiness of snow from the window, xmas decorations and music, walking all bundled up on crunchy snow when the sun is out. Warming up after.

Winter. Arghhh. Bleh. For those who feel the same, this post is for you. You have my commiserations. At the sight of the 1st snow, let's all yell fuck off, winter together.

For those who don't, good. Enjoy. Don't offer advice please. You are not my people at this time.