February. Such a month of vast differences. The coldest of our seasons. The shortest. The one of many celebrations of heritage and love. A month when life seems to be at its bleakest and perhaps its most loving.
So, what thoughts come to your mind for February? I just know it’s a time of reminding me that even if the groundhog sees his shadow, we only have six more weeks of winter! Hallelujah!
How are you preparing?
It’s like a blank canvas.
Setting the winter stage for new life to spring forth in March, April, and May. I have gardening friends who have been preparing for their gardens and ordering and planting seeds for a month now. Anxious to see new life. Waiting in anticipation.
But, meanwhile, February lingers. And unless we have lots of wonderful snow, (that I am a fan,) bleakness may creep in.
Can I give you a bit of advice? Bleakness, dismalness, discontent, winter blues have no place in your life.
You see, you paint the canvas.
Set the stage.
You can make the choice to let those things take over your thoughts, or you can be intentional at keeping them at bay. We all have bad days; but, truly, your canvas of life is yours to paint each day. Each. And. Every. Day.
What message will you paint on your canvas?
Those that are “happy” ones? That brighten your and others’ days? Dramatic hues? Or dark ones? No judgment over here. It’s each one’s call.
For me, my canvas will be filled with gifts. Again. Giving continues this month with perhaps batches of heart-shaped marshmallows, hot cocoa Valentine stirs, and chocolate dipped strawberries making their appearance for family and friends.
Planning special meals with a table moved close to the fireplace. Winter picnics. Maybe roasting marshmallows. Time for laughter and activities that bring more happiness with those you surround yourself.
Time for long walks, bundled, and with a mask still close. Conversations about things that are important and plans for spring.
I would love to paint the canvas with unexpected surprises that bring joy. Those times when I can simply provide an element of happy surprise.
This month, my winter canvas will be full of as many warm ways as I can manage to care for others. Not many feet are still finding their way to my table yet, but spring is coming, and hopefully an end to the season that has put a halt to so many things we love.
I love that canvases are forgiving. If you don’t like the way it looks, you can start over. Wipe the slate clean. Paint again. I’m over here working on mine, yet to be told it’s true outcome.
I’m making it a masterpiece! Being positive and still moving forward on its completion. I’ll have to remember, though, if I paint something that I don’t like…I can simply paint over it. I love that.
So, how’s your winter canvas progressing? If your New Year’s Resolutions have already gone by the wayside, guess what?
You have a new canvas to begin again. Happy February, friends!
If you’d love to find out more about the stories depicted, follow me on the blog at feetundermytable.com. I’d love to see you there!
