Maggie's Thought for the Week: Every Season Is A Present

In New England, every season brings the same reaction to many- work to do for preparation of the coming season. Fall means raking leaves, protecting plants against frost, and the yearly furnace cleaning or wood stacking for the stove. Winter involves raking roofs to avoid ice dams, drying seeds for spring planting, and prioritizing house projects that can be accomplished once spring arrives. Spring chores include washing windows, fertilizing plants & lawns, and house repairs from the winter snowstorms. The summer season finds many relaxing on vacations planned during the 'winter blues', but also includes yard work, pool parties, and smores cooked over the fire pit.

Maggie enjoyed every season. Fall meant running thru leaves and trying to catch them in her mouth. Winter brought snow to roll in and smells from the slow cooker to fill the house with mouth-watering aromas. Spring was a time to enjoy the smell of fresh cut grass & blooming flowers as the days became longer. Summer meant dips in the pool to cool her paws and rest in the shade on the deck- waiting for that cherished scoop of vanilla ice cream on Sundays.

People tend to rush through the seasons. We talk about holiday madness, winter chores & spring cleaning. Many try to create picture-perfect summer vacations and Curry & Ives Family Christmas letters. Maybe we should just enjoy the present season, present holiday and the present moment. After all, no matter how much we worry or prepare, the seasons will come & go...and eventually they will all become a memory.

Every season is a present. Cherish the moments it brings. It may be your last season with a special someone. Enjoy the gift.