Still hibernating, unlike the bears who sleep all winter

Find rest as a cave dweller

When days are short

And nights are long

Curl up with a book, create something with my hands

or just write

To savor the soul-cleansing comforts of fire, candlelight, quiet piano interludes

and satisfying hot meals

To regroup emotionally, physically, and spiritually

In the quiet hours to indulge far from the maddening crowd

The breathing spaces, what last beyond the melting ice and snow

In the restored order of a fresh new year long after holidays have past

Of an indulgent respite amidst the cold stillness of the mountains

Inside the beloved cave-like haven of our warm mountain home

🌲