My only exposure to Richmond winters has been weekends or short trips to see family. Winter 2010 for Richmond was blizzard after blizzard and the snow only seemed to begin on Fridays. This first winter living in Richmond has been a complete shock. No snow so far, although there has been sleet and mixed rain here and there interjected by many warm fronts, like today, bringing highs in the 60's.
In honesty, as much as I hate the biting cold I brace for each winter, I love finding the warmth tucked away like a treasure. The instant gratification of control over my sensations. I hadn't given it much thought until someone asked what sort of things I do to feel warm in the cold. I am certain she meant warmth of heart but my mind went the other direction...
I love the weight of a down comforter or the Jean blankets I made for my kids pressing down on me like a precious hug. I love the body heat shared when snuggled on the couch with toddlers still in their PJ's. I love that my kitchen is the first room in the house to warm each morning and how that warmth invites the rest of the family to join me in presence and in abundance.
It reminds me how the truth of "God gives, and God takes away" doesn't mean of Himself. Even in the taking, He is there with me, making sure to sustain me in abundance.
