Now, to me, is the beginning of the new year.

If you live someplace like California, it’s really easy to make a resolution to begin your year in January with an anticipatory to-do list. Hangover aside, the first day of YOUR new year is probably warm and sunny, lending itself to keeping those resolutions.

But here, in Northern Illinois, we tend to lapse in our dedication. New Year’s Eve we are full of high hopes for January and the upcoming year. We’re going to do this and go there. Then we’re cooped up for three months, not accomplishing much. It’s not until March that we begin to see an end to winter. It’s only about now that “outside” is a thing you want to be in.

The forecast for today is 70 degrees. It’s not sunny, but considering it’s 58 degrees warmer than a few weeks ago, I think we can manage. I want to open my windows! I want to go outside! I want to take my dogs for a walk. And now that the snow has melted, I even almost kinda sort of want to pick up the dog poop in the back yard. (Just kidding, Dave does a good job keeping up with that task.)

It’s been a really long winter– and yes, I know it’s not over yet. Technically, March 20, or literally, you know there will be one more “snowfall” before there’s not. But it’s important to recognize the feeling of a new year, to acknowledge a fresh start– flower buds, leaf shoots, robins. The excitement, enthusiasm and joy of the first few “no coat necessary” days. Those things you said you wanted to do in 2015? You may commence.

Happy New Year!
I hope you are celebrating.
I am.