Jan
16
2010
Blues and Blahs
Author: Carolyn van Es-VinesMy oldest daughter keeps informing her little sister that spring’s almost here. Her declaration falls on skeptical ears.
“Mama, isn’t spring coming next week?”
I turn sad eyes outside. I must disappoint her. “No, Chloe-bear,” I reply. “Spring’s a long, long way off.”
Around this time of year, when Dutch people ask me what I miss most about the States, my answer is always the same: blue skies.
“In Indiana, where I’m from,” I explain, “winters are long and cold. But, no matter how cold, windy and miserable winter may be, the skies are clear and the sun likes to shine.”
During the wet, gray days that accompany Dutch winters, I’ve taken to bringing up my spirits by focusing on the things I love about living here. We’ve had a lot of snow and ice this winter, which has been unusual since I’ve been here. Many Dutch people still brave the slippery bike paths, as many don’t have cars. Others have taken to transporting their children around on sleds. What a brilliant idea!
I got our sled out of the shed, where it’s been hiding ever since my husband got it as a gift last year, and pulled my kids on it through the schoolyard. Not only did they get a kick out of riding on it, I didn’t have to carry Paige, who was afraid of falling.
I’m actually a bit disappointed all the snow and ice are melting away that little bit of winter fun. But, I’ve promised myself to get through these long days by focusing on other reasons to appreciate winter in Holland. What are you doing?
January 18th, 2010 at 21:13
Today I came out of school and looked up and thought, wow it sure is late. I looked at my watch and it was not even 5pm. I then felt so down, the lack of sunlight in the fall/winter is difficult. So to pass the time I throw myself into school work.
January 19th, 2010 at 18:14
Hi Ebony,
that’s always a good one cause you’re doing something productive! Thanks for sharing.
January 24th, 2010 at 05:43
Enjoying Seoul more now that the snow has melted. I still wear my furry (on the inside) boots and gingerly walk to the nearest and chicest cafe in my neighborhood. I enjoy writing in my journal while listening to John Coltrane floating in the warm air as windows fog up in the cold corners.
Ciao!
Felicia, This Time in Seoul
January 24th, 2010 at 21:10
Hi Felicia,
now that’s the way to spend the winter. It sounds like you’re spoiling yourself rotten. Good for you.
February 2nd, 2010 at 00:20
having a real wood fire gets me through the winter - I love the warmth but also how it makes the room/house so cosy. I often light it at ten in the morning, to cheer up a grey day!
Hope you had a good trip at Christmas.
February 2nd, 2010 at 12:31
Hi Saffia,
I agree with lighting a fire. We usually only do it on the weekend, when we’re all home and just hanging out. Our trip was active during the day and relaxing at night. We had lots of laughs and enjoyed being together. Thanks for leaving a comment. Look forward to book clubbing with you again!
February 10th, 2010 at 17:48
I’ve noticed the same thing; at my home in the States, now matter how cold, we usually have clear blue skies and lots of sunshine. Not so much in France. I’m stoked for springtime, though!
February 13th, 2010 at 09:53
Hi Diasporique,
me and you both!