It’s all Sunshine and Roses*

*At this exact moment. Ten minutes ago, it was grey and foggy. I’m sure it’ll be rainy again soon.

This winter has been the easiest since I moved to Portland. Granted, the last two winters (2011-2012 & 2012-2013) were so awful that almost anything would appear to be fantastic in comparison, but still…this has been good.

I’m not good at just taking that information and saying, “woo!” I must analyze! And discuss relentlessly! And then, obviously, blog about it.

I have narrowed the cause down to one of four things.

  1. I have lived in Portland enough years now that I am adjusting to the lack o’ daylight hours in the winter.
  2. This winter was much less grey and rainy than previous winters.
  3. A great shedding of negative influences in my life; you know, those people that you really don’t realize how much they’re bringing you down until they’re gone and you can breathe again?
  4. A combination of items one through three.

If I was a betting woman (which I’m not), I’d go with four and add a touch of (c) no one is dying and I’m not deep in the throes of severe post-partum depression and anxiety.

I’ve also started feeling healthy again. I was sick a bit the end of January, but I’ve been running more (yay!), sniffling less (thanks to the vitamin recommendation, Seattle-ites!), and letting go more.

I’m writing a lot more, too – and it’s amazing how much that’s a positive impact on my mood. I finished book the first in my series in December and am almost 1/3 of the way through book the second as of this morning. The editing process is still forth-coming, but barring second thoughts (on her part), I think I’ve lined up a first reader for when that’s ready to be read by someone not me. I think I’m even okay if she tells me it sucks. (I hope it doesn’t suck, though.)

I feel more secure in my own me-ness. Sure, there are things I’d like to change about myself and my life, but I’m working on the whole “courage to change the things I can, wine to deal with the things I can’t, wisdom to know the difference.” (The serenity prayer as prayed to Bacchus.)

The last thing that might be positively impacting my mood?

This.

Alvie, reading my favorite childhood book.

 

Follow me on social!