February 5, 2023
Good morning my friends. I hope you are doing well and enjoying life. Here we are, already into the first week of February! I hate to say it, but January flew by a bit too quickly. Now, we’re even beyond Groundhog Day, which was this past Thursday, the 2nd. Living on the east coast gave me the opportunity to watch the fabulous festivities live from Gobbler’s Knob in Pennsylvania. Punxsutawney Phil, saw his shadow and predicts six more weeks of winter. Whether Phil is accurate in his prediction or not, isn’t the important factor in the grand scheme of life. His speculation is entertaining, fun and potentially creates levity to release our minds of stress or anxiety of the chilly temps of winter. The event maintains a wonderful tradition and a part of our culture and history. The climate, weather or universe we live in; are among a long list of things beyond our control. Our time on earth is a precious commodity. There will always be those who want to control every aspect of life. If you use your intellect, you will understand why that’s just not possible. My best advice is to release the controls and constraints of life. When you free your mind, body and spirit of these shackles; this is where you will discover the bliss of living.
The seasons bring different weather patterns for various parts of the world. While it’s winter in the northern hemisphere (here in the USA), it’s summer in the southern part of the globe (South America, Australia, etc.), and vice versa. Here’s a quick refresher in what creates these patterns and changes. The earth is rotating and tilting as it spins around the sun. As our planet tilts closer to the sun, the northern hemisphere becomes more exposed to the heat rays. Conversely, as it tilts back and the southern hemisphere comes closer to the sun, the earths weather patterns change again. Typically, every year I hear people wish for warmer weather after the first month or so of winter; and cooler temperatures after the first month of summer heat. It’s an interesting, funny and entertaining dichotomy. Some people are just never satisfied no matter what. Other individuals believe the weather is being manipulated by the government or “global warming.” I have my doubts about both. The earth and the universe have been in existence for billions of years. Changes in weather, along with life and everything else on this rock, have evolved and changed during the course of time. I’m sure what humans have done, and continue to do in an increasing fashion, have an impact of this planet. Whether or not we can control, or reverse what has happened, is a huge debate and way beyond my control.
Winter is definitely a unique and interesting time of year. Conditions obviously vary from place to place, but lately we’ve experienced some crazy and extreme weather in many locations across America (and the world). We have witnessed it create winter wonderlands or frigid blizzards with extreme and deadly weather. This year, so far, torrential rain storms plagued the west coast. Heavy snow fell across the northern tier of the country, from the west to east. Tornados ripped across the south, from the Gulf of Mexico and north into the middle of the country. Freezing temperatures, rain, lightening, thunder, ice, snow and severe weather rounded out the rest of the country. I don’t mind wintery weather, but then I haven’t really experienced a full-blown cold winter! One of the best parts about growing up in Southern California, is the consistency of the climate, temperature and weather. I remember when I was a kid, I dreamed of snow in the winter time. In SoCal, it was either summer or winter; or what we considered to be winter. It would get chilly, with more rainy days, but still more sun than clouds. There were a couple winters we even had some snow scattered around the Los Angeles area. Nothing significant, but enough to close roads and schools for a day. My sister and I were thrilled. When my family would travel east to Ohio, to visit family for Christmas, my sister and I would wish for a “white” Christmas. Unfortunately, that wish never came true and it never snowed during our visits. One day I hope to make that Christmas wish a reality, but on my own terms. I definitely still prefer warm sunshine to clouds and cold.
Since I relocated to the east coast, a little over a year ago, there is definitely more defined seasonal weather changes. It’s nice to experience the actual seasons: Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. I can definitely do without the humidity that comes with the east coast summers. I’d much rather deal with straight heat, than when it’s combined with a ton of moisture. I guess I didn’t think that move all the way through. I miss the mountains too! This situation may need to be rectified in the coming years. I also discovered moving plants across country didn’t work out as expected. I had three seven-foot-tall lush fichus plants, planted in large pots in my outdoor sun room in San Clemente. They were thriving in the sunny beach air. I decided to bring them with me when I moved to South Carolina. The trees survived the adventure across country. I place one in my screened patio enclosure and the other two on the nicely covered front porch. I received many compliments, on them and the pots they were planted. In late January, last year, we experienced several overnights with below freezing temperatures. I covered these beautiful plants, in anticipation, but even the blankets didn’t offer the protection they required. When I uncovered the beauties, they were frozen and their green leaves burnt to a crisp from the frigid temps.
The morale of my story; the grass isn’t always greener on the other side of the country. Plants (and people) that thrived in one climate or region may not adapt or thrive in another. Life’s just different (and the same) from place to place. Similar, or some of the same issues exist, with a variety of twists and turns; especially regarding the weather, life and love. It can be better, worst or sometimes just the same as it was anywhere else. My move has enlightened and taught me new experiences and life lessons. The best I can do, is to strive to be the best possible version of myself every day. Life isn’t about being perfect or always having an answer for every situation or question. I’ve learned it’s in my best interest to deal with the issues and struggles that come my way without hesitation. I have the ability to empower myself; to stand my ground, not with force, but with openness and kindness. It doesn’t mean I’m weak, not at all. This energy gives me the strength and courage to move forward without fear. Now, I’m free to communicate my feelings, show my emotions and am vulnerable to the love I want to share. Whether we experience six more weeks of Winter or enjoy an early Spring, do your best to be kind, grateful and happy. A positive attitude and change of perception can help too. Life is best lived when you find the climate, location and people that suit you. This is when you can truly thrive in abundance and happiness. Tune in next Sunday for my Valentine’s Day post and more about life and love. Follow your dreams. They know the way.
Please tune in and join me again next Sunday for more! The puzzle of life is always changing. Change can lead to amazing opportunities. Together, let’s be healthy and strong; mentally, physically and spiritually!
Thanks for your love and support! Embrace Life! Be sure to get outside and enjoy nature!
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