a cool and mindful word: hygge

I woke to the sun streaming in through the over-sized window in the living room. Cupping my coffee, I closed my eyes and soaked it in. It was such a welcome relief to the previous day's fog that kept everything cold and frozen; huddled in against the grey.

Stepping outside I could feel the slight warmth of the sun; my shadow elongated due to it's southerly slant in winter.

Even the birds were more chipper, singing vibrant melodies and flitting about. A few squirrels ran up and down bare trees. Isabella was playful with her nose to the ground and butt up, only to flop down and slide and roll in the remaining snow.

I don't mind a little hibernating in the winter. It's a great time to catch up on some reading or to enjoy a hot drink of sorts with a friend. However, I do love the sun shining bright, making me squint. It enlivens the spirit when everything is monochromatic and dormant.

The Danish have a cool word - hygge - pronounced hue-guh. Hygge acknowledges a special feeling or contentment and coziness. It's about being present and close; an art of hospitality and intimacy with family, friends and new acquaintances. It's connection, comfort, simpleness and kinship.

With such long, cold winters, the Danes saw a direct need for staying engaged and finding moments to enjoy and celebrate. And the interesting part to me is this mindful approach sees the specialness in small things like lighting a candle or having coffee in a certain mug; sharing a meal with friends - as we did on Saturday - or walking in nature's fresh air.

It occurred to me this morning, while I was enjoying the streaming rays, that unknowingly I was practicing this peaceful art - being aware, being present and being appreciative. Being.

I'd like to be this mindful year round - practicing presence and appreciation for all of the gifts so graciously given to me by the One who makes all things possible.

I wish you peace and the practice of hygge in this winter season -

Missy

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