Outside

I don't think there's anything in this world that brings me more joy, that fills my heart till it feels like it's going to BURST, that engages me as much as things created by Mother Nature. Sunshine, fresh flowers, snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, river rapids, vast green fields, sheep baaaaah-ing, crunchy leaves, muddy pits. Being outdoors really, really, really, really makes me happy.

This week, the sun decided to come out and make its spring debut. Up until then, it had been cold, rainy and gray. Everyone was locked up inside their warm 'n' toasty homes. Little by little, flowers started flourishing and trees sprouted spankin' new leaves. The grass got a little greener. My walks to my school became less depressing. And then all of a sudden, it was warm out, there was no need to layer on the clothes and coats and socks and scarves. All the students laid out on the quad to absorb the warm rays and there wasn't a single person sitting indoors in the cafes--they were all people watching on the tables outside, laughing and taking it easy. And finally, the kids came out to play. I had never seen kids playing outside in the six months I've been here till this week. What a difference a little bit of sunshine can make in the spirit of a town.

I'm going to make it a point to be outside more often. You know, the sun gives us Vitamin E and releases endorphins. Tomorrow, I will go skiing in the Alps. In the near future, I must go rock climbing outdoors. I can see the rock faces every time I look out my apartment window or take a train; it's such a tease.