No Husband Left Behind
HIM & HER — Together (on the Same Page)
[Challenge]
Preparing for Winter
Are you feeling somewhat excited about “winter”, or have you already started to cringe? Honestly, the winter season can be an excellent time to accomplish so many things which you probably would otherwise not “have the time” to do the rest of the year. What is your favorite “indoor” or “outdoor” things to do when the temperature drops?
[Changes]
At its core, winter is merely the transition from Autumn (fall). What comes next gets some motivated and others frustrated. Winter may be seen as a drastic time of change, especially in certain regions (northeastern US). Perhaps you may even notice some things go “dormant” (perennial flowers and shrubs). Some would even view winter as a time of “loss” (tree leaves), and even death (annual plants and flowers).
Many regions plan for cooler temperatures. Some expect snow, maybe even several feet in the mountain areas. And if you are “extra lucky”, you may even get a chance to walk or drive on some “ice” (sarcasm). Of course, you are welcomed to explore any opportunities of visiting loved ones or friends in a “warmer” climate. Just try not to over stay your welcome.
If conditions require you to endure harsh winter conditions against your liking, please do keep in mind that changes are always just around the corner. Even when things begin to really look bleak, you can “day-dream” about how spring is only one season away. Wherever you find yourself, please do not waste your life (hibernating) or good opportunities (catching up on things).
[Difficulties]
Winter can be one of the best times to become tougher. Perhaps mostly while learning to survive the frigid outdoor climate. Your mind will be the first thing to go, wishing away the next few months. Maybe you should consider this the season of “trials” and “testing” and “preparation” for upcoming things (getting you ready).
Your marriage may even be put to the test with you two love birds spending so much time together. Not having much quality alone time for thinking may be harmful to your productivity. Hopefully both of you will have things to work on together, and other projects on your own.
If you find yourself in a “very” challenging time, remember to keep you head up. A job loss due to company layoffs could provoke an overnight “financial” crisis. You will still need to obtain your family’s core “essentials”, like food. Never forget the local church and other organizations in your region can be helpful during times of transition.
[Adventure]
Honestly, winter can be an “exciting” time of year. Whether you find yourself staying indoors or going outdoors, there is much to do. For starters, let us go outside for a quick snowball fight, while sharpening your aim. Then maybe you can use any extra energy to assemble a “snow-person”. Other outdoor recreation could even include winter camping, downhill or cross-country skiing, snow shoeing, and so on.
When you are ready to return to the “great indoors”, you may wish to enjoy some hot chocolate and warm baked treats. If you have not done so in a while, consider rearranging the furniture for a better flow or different effect. Maybe now would even be the perfect time to begin using that “exercise equipment” you bought some time ago.
Other tasks to help pass the time could include reading that book you swore you would get to. Maybe even listening to a few podcasts on topics of interest. How about watching a few “how to” videos in preparation for a winter project. Or even participating with an online course or membership. Whatever you do, identify something you enjoy which produces “positive” results. Life is way too short not to attempt to enjoy every single day.
From one who forever remains…
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo
Christian Community for Married Men and Women — (Knights) & (Damsels)