A blizzard hit, Mark & I journeyed out on a 3.5 mile walk playing and making art along the way. I joined a cpl online journal & art classes, one free, one a yr long venture that cost a minimal amount. Days passed, temps were frigid. Certain financial situations jumped into arena from last yr and well, we tightened our belts, ALOT! No worries, we know the drill, we got this. The paid on-line class, I explained and made my exit, only to be graced with being able to remain and maybe later begin payments. Awesome right?? GRATITUDE
Traded shoveling the sidewalk( with Marks help in subzero temps) so my yoga studio could open for 10 free classes, initiated some ideas, did some bartering, made a birthday present with Mark for my mother and actually got it mailed in time for her to receive it on her 75th birthday. Worked less hrs than expected, drank red wine every day, cooked some delicious meals every now and again. Perfected a "from scratch" brownie recipe, read some good books, journalled, played in paint, markers, collage, set intentions, practiced yoga and shivered. Gosh did I shiver despite layers of clothing. You see, the temperatures dipped into single digits, sometimes well into the negative! First heating bill of the year was horrendous so we lowered the thermostat. I have never worn socks and slippers ALL winter! I'm the chick that runs out barefoot in the cold & snow to collect the mail or shovel the front porch! Socks are usually my nemesis!!! Well not this month. I am grateful for socks & slippers and sweaters, blankets, well, actually anything that provides warmth, comfort and doesn't cost such an exorbitant amount of money. It's all good, we are managing fine. GRATITUDE We maintain a bird feeder and our usual feathered friends went to roost during that worst of the cold snap with the exception of one cardinal. He always showed up in the bushes facing the front window. Making sure we were aware of his presence before he ate. He might have wanted in!! Were able to keep the feeder full and available despite my breaking it! GRATITUDE
I am sure there is more that occurred that I failed to mention but over all the month of January was okay.
I still retain a high and optimistic attitude for this year!