Did i mention that i really like winter? You might want to check back in on that statement in 4 months or so...but for now, i'm really enjoying winter. Awaking today to a steady silent patter of flakes outside the window, (And to friends bearing feline)i was happy and content. I was musing about this with a friend, wondering why is it that something as cold and uncomfortable as winter is comforting to me...perhaps it is, as suggested, that anyone growing up in Edmonton has more snow-and-ice associated childhood memories than any other kind. Maybe i'm drawn to the simplicity of the winter asthetic - black and white, high-contrast, dark branches against white snow, shapes and textures standing out, drawing attention to themselves in the simplified winter palette of black, white, grey and brown. There's a crispness to the cold air, a freshness, something that makes one feel awake and alive just by steppng out into it. And a warm house with tea and hot chocolate feels that much better when you've spent your day huddled against biting wind.