In the last several weeks, I've struggled through the armpit of winter, a difficult period of recovery from knee surgery, and a heavy load of projects and classwork.  I've always considered myself resilient in the face of weather.  Over the years, that resilience has been tested by injuries, illness, and the random things that life has dumped on me.  This has been an exceptionally trying winter for me, and grateful to emerging from this long dark tunnel of a season.

Snowmelt, more hours of daylight, increasing numbers of birds, hints of green - all of these things feel like precious gifts.  

Returning to my bike in the last few weeks has given me a renewed sense of appreciation for simply being able to get around.  How often do we truly recognize the significance of being mobile enough to walk to and from the train or get around the neighborhood? 

For weeks, my body and the weather conspired to deprive me of that ability.  It's also pre-empted any desire to spend time job hunting, either for temporary or permanent work, when I felt that my body wouldn't hold up to a daily commute in the snow and ice.

Having the support of friends has made a huge difference in surviving this test.

I've found hope again - that I can get around without being in pain every day, that I could handle working again, that spring is almost here, and I don't have to live in fear of falling and returning to the abyss of pain.  Re-emerging is glorious.