What are the Possibilities?

As I look outside at the newly fallen snow, I wonder .... What are the possibilities? It seems winter has come early, yet I remember saying those same words every year for how many years?

We moved to Rainbow Lake 22 years ago (Oct 31st) and I think of the banks of snow leading into our trailer as we moved our furniture in while giving out bags of Cheezies and Chocolate Bars. We had left Saskatchewan a week early, with the geese flying overhead, tumbleweed and dust blowing across the highway and thinking how warm it was for a late fall day. A few hours later we were concerned our plants in the moving van would freeze overnight and by morning the snow had started to fall. The drive from Edmonton to High Level the following day was strange, going from sunshine to snow storm and back to sunshine. By the time we hit Peace River it was getting dark and snow was falling, and yet I remember the beauty of fall colored leaves still on the trees. That winter I was amazed at the number of really warm days, as chinook winds melted the high banks of snow, as if to make room for more.

So today as I look back over the years I ask, "Has winter come early, or is it that I am just not ready to give up the beauty of summer for a snow shovel and mittens?" As I tried to shovel the snow from the deck and clear the snow from my car, I took a moment to look up and feel the cool flakes on my face. Mmmm... It felt so fresh, so clean and crisp. The fallen snow glistening from the street lights brought a sense of peace. I remembered that winter is the season of planning; a time of reviewing the past year and bringing together creative ideas to be sown in the spring.

I started the car, came back in the house surrendering the driveway to the snow still falling and blowing itself into whatever openings it finds. I surrender to the beauty of winter. I surrender and accept.

So what are the possibilities? What will be the blessings winter brings? What new and creative ideas will fill my mind and soul, where once my mind was on the blossoming flowers and overgrown grass? I give thanks for the changing seasons, each filled with pleasure and seeming pain, each offering it's own unique exercise program. I am filled with anticipation of the sun shining on the banks of white, filling my yard with diamonds and crystals shimmering and gleaming in it's reflection, reminding me of the great abundance of the Universe.

And Christmas, a time of peace, joy and goodwill. Yes, I am ready for winter and delight in the many possible adventures and events that come with the season. What are the possibilities?