For gardeners, the winter is a time to let our bodies recuperate and rest. I often feel like some hibernating creature as I cozy up with my cats and a warm cup of camomile tea. There is something special about being in touch with the seasons - emerging tentatively like the pale green point of a daffodil in the spring, with eagerness and fresh eyes. Then come the frenzied days of summer, where we work longer hours as the light lingers longer too. As a chill creeps into the air in October, I feel my body slow, and at last come to a halt as frost paints the grass in December. 

I am often asked what I do with my time in the winter. While I head outside occasionally for pruning, or some late season bulb planting before the ground freezes solid, I am mostly cuddled up inside resting and planning for the season ahead. 

I have also found that without the daily practice of working with our hands in the garden, many gardeners become crafters in the winter months. I work on embroidery and figure drawing. I luxuriate in the pleasures of a good book, or a walk in the wintry forest. Similar to teachers who have a summer vacation, the seasonal nature of our work allows us this time off, and makes the winter one of the most delightful seasons.