Warmth

As the season progresses toward winter in the northern hemisphere, a certain chill permeates everything.  Even when the temperature in the house is no different than it would have been in earlier months, I can never seem to rid my ankles and lower legs of a slightly uncomfortable coldness.  My mom can tell you it's hereditary.  Those trend setters in the eighties had it figured out.  Leg warmers. This time of year starts my existence of perpetually seeking warmth.  I bring hot water bottles to bed.  I wear sweaters over turtle necks.  I only wear wool socks.  This year I'm lucky, I'm escaping the worst of the winter by going to the southern hemisphere.

Tonight was an evening of great depth of warmth, analogous to snuggling in a down sleeping bag while camping on a cold evening.  Outside was dark and frigid, our house was lit with white strings of lights, heated by aromatic stove-top dinner preparations.  Happy music set the tone.  As is often the case, most of the warmth came from the company.  The collective of housemates, all together and able to enjoy the evening together for the first time in weeks.  It is incredible the bond and affection that exists among a group of people who, for the most part, have met, and lived together for only three and a half months.  There isn't much I wouldn't do for them.  Including, apparently, taking a bite out of a stick of butter because it would make one of them "feel less stressed".  Happy to oblige.  Soon the arrival of two guests, older friends this time, from another realm of my life.  Though I had not seen them since about those same three and a half months, there is a certain unique comfort and familiarity from consorting with old friends. Finally the arrival of two brand new friends, who brought beer and bread and a whole lot of laughter, both in their appreciation of everyone else's jokes, and due to their own humor.  The dinner was as delicious as it smelled, the laughter was as genuine as it sounded.

My original purpose for this blog was to record and share my experiences while traveling abroad.  But I don't want these moments to be forgotten or unappreciated, even if I'm still at home. I don't care if it's cheesy or cliche to use lyrics to express feelings, it seems hypocritical that quoting poetry can be sophisticated, while doing the same with song lyrics is cheap.  So, to quote a musical poet, "you're already home where you feel loved."*  Tonight was one of those nights that I felt, truly and fully, at home.  I can't say that I am excited to leave it.  Sure, I'm thrilled and grateful to be able to take a couple month vacation to spend time with most of the members of my amazing family in a new and incredible place.  I also won't forget where I am and who I'm with, right here, right now.

*In case you don't know, from The Head and The Heart, 'Lost in My Mind'.