Pre-pandemic, whenever it would snow- I would almost always go out of my way to avoid being outdoors. Despite being a born and raised New Englander, I’ve never done well in cold temperatures. I much prefer watching the snow fall from out my window and from the comforts of my couch while I’m wrapped in blankets and sipping a hot chocolate or latte. Since the pandemic, however- I’ve developed a fondness for the great outdoors regardless of the season and/or how cold it is outside.
Whether it was because I couldn’t stand being cooped up and in quarantine every day or because I discovered a newfound appreciation for life and all of nature, I still don’t know- but I am just as active and outdoorsy in the Winter as I am in the Spring, Summer and Fall now!
A perfect example of facing the weather with gusto was this past weekend. I had mentioned that following the most recent snowstorm to sweep through the area, Dan and I made our way over to Smith College for their annual Bulb Show– but that wasn’t the only thing we did while the flakes were still falling! After snapping plenty of photos, the two of us made the quick trek over to HighBrow in Northampton for a late lunch that included some buffalo wings and a mushroom truffle pizza.
After lunch, Dan had to head to work- and I needed to get some steps in and walk off as many carbs from the pizza that I could. On my drive home, I stopped in Historic Deerfield to take a walk around the neighborhood since it was empty and quiet due to the storm. It’s one of my favorite places to visit year-round but it is especially beautiful in the Wintertime. There’s just something about the old, cozy houses/tour stops and gas lamps being covered with fresh falling snow!
When the roads started getting a little treacherous again, I hopped in my car to finish the ride home before I got stuck- but it was such a pleasant and pretty afternoon in and around the Valley!
I really do consider myself blessed to live in such a pretty part of the Northeast!
xo
Coffee & Chiffon 