Taking on the stresses of the day can be a daunting task. Often, the best remedy for this is finding joy in unexpected places. Being able to enjoy the simplicities of life is my standout favorite trait. For example, I find pleasure in appreciating each season for its full worth. It would be a waste to not revel in any season’s beauty.
In winter, I like to admire the chunky white flakes that make the real world appear as if it were a snow globe, gently shaken and stirred up. In the chilly temperatures, instead of moping around, I cheerily trot to my kitchen and whip up my favorite hot cocoa – Swiss Miss with milk (NOT water) and extra marshmallows. Then I spend my day cuddled up in my warmest blanket, next to the fireplace, with the sounds of Benson and Stabler arresting criminals on Law & Order: SVU playing in the background.
To me, there is nothing more exhilarating then the first rainfall of spring. It continues to amaze me that the aroma of dead worms can actually smell so refreshing. The rhythmic swishing of windshield wipers is incredibly soothing, and the perpetual pitter-patter of raindrops on my roof never fails to lull me to sleep. I am a firm believer in the statement: Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass; it’s about learning to dance in the rain. Also, it’s nearly impossible for me to deny the perfection of flowers beginning to bloom.
Summer provides the perfect weather for an athlete. I truly become an animal when handed a bat and a glove. My teammates and I praise the hot temperatures and lack of precipitation. The tropical scent of sunscreen is irreplaceable. However burned my shoulders get, there’s no stopping me from relishing in the long daylight hours and warm, breezy nights.
I’m not sure which part of fall is more appealing: the sweaters and Uggs or the pumpkin spice lattes and apple cider. Watching the leaves change from green to yellow to a deep red-orange is also towards the top of my list – although the mountains in my backyard do look good in whatever color they are adorned with.Not to mention that autumn hosts the best holidays. The traditional Thanksgiving feast definitely has a special spot in my heart (and stomach).
Being able to enjoy all four seasons reminds me that I am graced to live in the Northeast. Between the snowy winters, the rainy spring, the warm summers, and the crisp fall, it’s easy to get lost in the beauty. As I look back on my life experiences, I realize how many people have helped me developed an appreciation for life's little wonders. I am quickly learning these "little things" were home to incredible memories.
