Welcome February

I don’t know about you, but recently I’ve wondered if the sun remembers we’re here. I realize Ohio isn’t the Universe’s central star 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 recommitment to rearrange the clouds. To be fair, February can be known to give us a tease of brighter days to come. Just when drabness threatens to take permanent residence, we are gifted with an opportunity to bask in some much-needed sunshine. But, let’s be honest. We don’t live in California, so we have to accept February’s gifts that exist below the clouds; at least until the cycle of renewal graces us with crocus sprouts and the discovery of robin eggs burrowed in newly crafted nests. This makes me a bit motivated to explore some 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 tomato soup? The crunch of the bread, the stretch of melted cheese, and the coat of drippy soup  makes for true bliss. I recently spoiled myself with the uncharacteristic lunch; allowing the choice of this dynamic culinary duo to override my usual default of a drab protein bar on-the-go. 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 to any afternoon, especially cloudy ones.

Of course, the best pastime for any day, winter or not, is to curl up with a good book. I’m currently in the middle of a 735 page fiction book that’s put a pause on almost all other activities of daily living. Despite my husband’s frequent commentary, “I could never read a 735 page book.” I’ve found myself smitten by the lush companionship of such rich fictional characters. You can’t immerse yourself in such a literary commitment as easily when gardens need tilling or when warm air beckons you from open windows. Getting lost in a great book can provide a make-over for February.

All of a sudden, I’m feeling excited for February. Indeed, there’s much more to the month than Valentine’s Day, although I am looking forward to some grandchild homemade Valentine cards. 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. Oh, and have I mentioned that this year is a leap year which means we get an extra day of February delights. In the meantime, pay no attention to the groundhog. February might shape up to be a pretty great month after all.