An Open Letter to Winter

Dear Winter,

Hi, how are you? You really seem to be thriving lately. I was wondering if we could have a little chat? Great.

At the beginning of the season, you seemed like you couldn't decide if you really wanted to come or not. Why it was 50 degrees one day, and 35 the next . . . I was beginning to wonder if your heart was really into it. Let me say I am so sorry for having doubted your staying power. Now that you've been hanging around for a couple of months and making a really strong impression, I just have a quick question: Will you be leaving any time soon?

Don't get me wrong, I understand you have a job to do. There are seasons, and you must oblige by the laws of nature . . . but do you have to be so cold and so snowy? Seriously Winter, a low of 7 degrees? If I wanted to live in a tundra, I would have moved to Chicago. Yes, yes, I know I live in the North Eastern region of the U.S., but really?!?! 7 degrees? Ok.

Also, what's with all the snow? It's getting to the point where last week I walked half a block before I noticed there was new snow on the ground. Perhaps I'm bitter because in my new home city, NYC, they really don't start shutting things down for anything under 10 inches. Back in my hometown area, Washington D.C., about two inches was enough to go into panic mode.

So, I guess I'm just trying to figure out when you're planning on leaving. I get that February is coming, and you probably plan on sticking that one out, but are you going to start making your exit around March? I don't want you to feel like you've worn out your welcome but . . . you kind of have. If it's so cold that you can feel the chill beneath a layer of five mixed vodka drinks, it's REALLY cold.

It's not you, it's me. I just have other things I really want to do with my time. I want to lay around Central Park, wear sundresses, and watch movies in Bryant Park at night. You can't give me this. You can give me ice skating at Rockefeller, but that's really about it.

In short, take the time you need . . . but please leave soon. I hope I wasn't rude. In case we don't get to speak again, I'll see you next year. Take care of yourself ok?

Love,

Erika