Thanks to blogliners for my inspiration.

"To everything there is a season" - Have you a favorite?

That's a toughie but I do enjoy and loathe winter. It is horrible because, as I have mentioned before, I am one of those icicle people who really feel the cold so from November to March I am swathed in layers. On the other hand, it's fab because ... well for so many reasons:

Clear frosty mornings leading to bright red noses and sparkling eyes (as children, my friend and I would say that the frost on the ground was diamonds).

Frozen dew caught on a spider's web (reminding me of the beautifully illustrated Victoria Plum books of Spring, Summer, Autum and Winter that I used to love).

The child-like anticipation of Christmas (see my previous post).

Mince pies and mulled wine.

Candles scented with cinnamon, orange and vanilla.

Bright red berries against shiny green leaves.

Listening to carols, Bing & Frank, and cheesy Christmas music.

Walking home from work and catching glimpses of decorations and warm inviting lights in hallways and lounges.

Wishing for a white Christmas but hoping the snow will thaw properly for when I have to walk to work in the new year!

Seeing the look of surpise and delight (hopefully) on my loved ones faces on Christmas morning.

The stark but beautiful sight of a leafless tree against a water-colour sky.

The first snowfloake peeking through January snow (reminding me of when I would go for walks with my Nan and having to "ring" the first snowbell I saw) ... followed by cheerful crocus and daffodils - the heralds of spring and another new year.

Happy Journeys.