The winter months were exceptionally brutal this year and being cooped for more days than being outside was even more brutal. The fire was burning, my tea was warm and a blanket across my lap just wasn’t working for me anymore. I was ready to break loose and be free. Bundling myself up and going out into the cold, windy , dark winter day I felt like a courageous explorer looking for signs of survival from the elements. As I walked slowly through the quiet stillness with the sound of the frozen twigs and leaves crackling under my feet I felt a sense of wonder for survival as I watched and listened to the wildlife searching for food and water. How do they survive I asked myself as I find myself back at my door I turn the door knob and feel the warm embrace of home. Disrobing from layers of clothing I take my hot tea and curl back up near the fireplace and thank our maker for our willingness to survive