When I outlined my reflection topics for this series, I figured mystery would be a fitting topic for the wintry pair of months at the start of the new year. I had rather hoped inspiration would stem, at least in part, from the snow-blanketed landscape. I also had hoped for a winter of skiable snow. I envisioned setting out across fields and skiing trails to explore familiar surroundings in new ways. Winter has a special magic of transformation and mystery, a magic I thought might translate into a reflection idea. Instead, this winter was shaped with influences from El Niño, making it follow a different pattern of precipitation and temperatures. Nature reminding us that it is a powerful force in our lives. These two months have been filled with magic though. Little moments of surprise, joy, inspiration, connection. All collected and strung together, these moments have helped the months to glow for me. Times when something on a walk or in a conversation sparked joy or inspiration within me. Or when a special connection was woven ever deeper with trust, safety, and strength. Sometimes there are so many mysteries in the everyday that they become a warm feeling that floats within. And I like that winter provides a quiet setting in which to reflect on that warmth. That even when a day, week, month, or season flows a little bit differently, there is still something to inspire us. There is something to make us smile. Mystery is everywhere. For a reflection about dancing, I knew this photo had to be the one I included. My curly-haired self in the early Nineties having fun in the sun. It reminds me how carefree dancing was for me in my earliest years, and it makes me glad that I've continued to find joy in dancing as an adult. I love that dance helps me feel sunnier. Dance has also helped me heal.
Growing up, I had a variety of good memories that involved dancing - weddings, youth retreats, and silly afternoons spent with my cousins. I also did ballet for a few years in elementary school. While I was sometimes self-conscious when dancing around others, dance and music were usually fun for me. In recent years, I've added dance videos to my exercise routine. I immediately loved cardio dance, but it also made me aware of memories I needed to heal at a deeper level. Music by Bensound - Song "Cute" by Benjamin Tissot SD Video Option (Mobile Device Friendly)
Happy Holidays from Owl Tree Whimsy!Thank you for another great year! I appreciate all of you for taking the time to read my writing, explore my recipes, and share your thoughts. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and a happy start to 2024! The poem used in the video is "Goodness is Goodness", which I wrote in August. Thank you for reading! Hope you are well, Chelsea Sosiak, Owl Tree Whimsy What does "warmth" mean to you?To me, "warmth" means feeling safe and loved. Feeling safe involves trust and security. Feeling loved involves respect and honesty. These combine to provide an environment where I know I can establish roots and grow. Because, as one grows they will eventually bloom. And the best setting in which to blossom is a warm, safe, and loving place where one can be and share their full self.
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