Welcome February
Featured in the Dayton Daily News
I don’t know about you, but recently I’ve wondered if the sun remembers we’re here. I realize Ohio isn’t our star’s top priority in picturesque destinations, but for those of us who thrive on sunshine to warm our souls, the month of February challenges us to find ways to cozy up as we patiently await the sun’s reappearance and the need for sunglasses. Just when drabness threatens to take permanent residence, we are gifted with today; an opportunity to bask in some much-needed sunshine. This makes me a bit motivated to explore other creative ways to bring light to these mid-winter days. I have a few suggestions.
First, I recommend grilled cheese and tomato soup. The combination of toasty melted cheese with creamy tomatoes engulfed in deliciousness is heavenly. Have you ever dipped each bite of a grilled cheese sandwich into the tomato soup? The crunch of the bread, the stretch of softened insides, and the coat of drippy soup makes for bliss redefined. I recently spoiled myself with the uncharacteristic lunch; allowing the choice of this dynamic culinary duo to override my usual default of house salad with dried cranberries. I’m still relishing the blue-star award-worthy yummiest of all meals.
Once you finish licking your fingers, I suggest a cup of hot tea. Those who know me can attest to my belief that a cup of hot tea is the ultimate remedy for everything. From the onset of a sore throat to reconciling a speeding ticket; sharing time with a friend or navigating a broken heart: life is easier while sipping the purity of tea. No matter what, cupping your hands around the warmth of a mug and inhaling the subtle nuances of flavored herbal teas are transformative and can bring a hint of contentment any afternoon, especially cloudy ones.
Of course, the best pastime for any day, winter or not, is to curl up with a good book. Discussions of book recommendations is one of my favorite past times. I’ve been known to use my most recent grocery store receipt for scribbled reminders of titles or authors I need to investigate after running into a fellow reader. Getting lost in a great book can provide a make-over for the gloomiest of days.
Speaking of books, I am happy to report that my book will be available to read in just a few weeks. I’m in the process of giving it one more look, and I’m getting pretty excited. I feel like I’ve been pregnant for the past several years in collecting thoughts, writing, rewriting, editing and preparing for this moment. Now it’s time for new birth.
Just Give Me the Road, is a story of sisterhood, faith amidst darkness, and a healing journey that will inspire you. Stay tuned for details in how to pre-order a copy. What I know for sure is that you will fall in love with my sister and be in awe of my nephew, Conor. I had a front row seat to this tenacious story of healing which will give hope to others who find themselves in the throes of unexpected and unwelcome life journeys.
All of a sudden, I’m feeling excited for February. I invite you to join me in finding some brightness somewhere. You never know, awakening your senses to tastes, smells and imagination can bring a different type of sunlight to these drab days. I’ll keep you posted on book details. In the meantime, pay no attention to the groundhog. February might shape up to be a pretty great month after all.