Welcoming 2012

I didn't have much planned for today, other than enjoying the day off from work. That was until I took the Christmas tree outside and saw how beautiful the weather was. I went back in and changed and headed out for a hike. I'm really glad I took advantage of the amazing weather we've been having.

I do appreciate living in a place that has four seasons. There's something harmonizing about it. As the seasons change, other things in your life change. From what foods I crave to what I do after work. The problem with four seasons, is that I don't like extremes. I pretty much like everything about spring and fall, summer and winter are a different story. I can't stand the heat of the summer and have never lived somewhere that I got to take advantage of air conditioning. But I do appreciate the long days and the escape from the heat that the canyons offer. I like being able to take Will to the pool and enjoy the cool water. I don't like the cold or the snow of winter. It's pretty up in the mountains and on Christmas, but that's the only time I want to see it. But I do appreciate the desire for soups and working on projects indoors that I ignore the rest of the year.

Today it was up to about 50. Not exactly normal for this time of year, but I'm definitely appreciative. I know there are negatives to this weather but I for one am going to try and take advantage while I can. A nice cool weather hike is the perfect start to a new year for me. I hope it's a sign of good things to come.

The trail normally looks like this is October instead of January


The plants are a little confused by the weather