Here I sit, on the cusp of a holiday season that for my
entire life has been cold and snowy. The winter solstice has just past and the
long, cold season is underway. Except, here, in Florida where residents tell us
this is the time of year where everyone gets up and out of their houses because
it’s just so beautiful outside.
I must apologize; Dan and I have been gleefully posting
pictures of our pool installation, work on the yard and warm weather
activities. We’ve been obnoxious, especially in light of the extreme cold most
of our family and friends have been subjected to. We are experiencing our first
“season”. That’s the word everyone uses to describe the return of snowbirds
from their wintry abodes. It’s the word that explains why the “monthly” farmers
market is now held on a weekly basis and why the street festivals have twice
the number of vendors.
It’s reverse hibernation. In the north you’ll find
fireplaces and hot chocolate waiting after a brief foray outside to enjoy some
winter activity. For many northerners (myself included), winter is a mad dash
(unless it’s icy) from house to car, car to work, car to store and so on. I
avoided going outside unless I had a specific reason. I’ve never been a fan of
winter sports and the associated equipment costs; I’ve always preferred the
simplicity of shorts and t-shirts, swimsuits and a body of water to splash in.
Though I do have to admit, I was one of those true Wisconsinites who wore
shorts and a parka to the gym.
Here in central Florida folks are out running and biking
without raising much of a sweat. The activity level is up even while the
daytime hours are limited. I’m hearing that this is an unusually warm December
with crisp nighttime lows in the mid-50s and daytime highs in the high-70s or
low-80s. We’ve had our windows open for over a month, a happy change from
constant air-conditioning. And we’ve been in the pool, not to cool off, but to
enjoy our new toy. Dan and I debate the best temperature for the hot tub, 99 or
101 degrees; and it really depends if it’s a 55 or 65-degree night.
So next summer, when our northern friends and family are
playing outside, think of me. I’ll be hibernating inside, hiding from temperatures
in the high-90s with a matching humidity. I’ll be making a mad dash from air-conditioned
house to sunbaked car hoping I don’t melt before the A/C kicks in. I’ll be
coated in a sweat-proof SPF, thick as frosting. (Dan is happily immune to the
effects of heat.) And we will be planning a visit to the north, to enjoy
reasonable temperatures and moderate humidity, and the folks we miss very much.
Much love, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
Music that resonates:
