Just when you thought something was never going to happen. Just when you thought the window had closed, magic reminds us why we need to continue to believe and never give up hope. 

I was reminded of this sentiment today and ever so gradually in preceding days as after a drought of a winter here in central Oregon as unfolded, the snow finally began to fall at about 8 in the morning and refused to cease (okay, it took a mini lunch break around noon, but then it picked back up again).

A destination where more than a few Olympic athletes train for the winter Olympics, the town of Bend has had no snow pretty much the entire winter season thus far. At 3600 feet in elevation, the moisture wasn't even present to turn into snow had we been so fortunate. 

Needless to say, just last week we had upper 50 degree-days and buds on the trees and shrubs were beginning to demonstrate their eagerness for spring. I too had let go momentarily of hoping for a white winter this year, but with a beautiful walk on Sunday shared with Norman in the snow and a fresh inch of snow greeting me Tuesday morning, I was beginning to reconsider throwing in the towel. And then Thursday happened and my hope was renewed.

It was as if the town was framed in a surreal moment of picturesque perfection. Since most people know how to drive in the snow here, and most of us want the snow as it means more fun activities outdoors to partake in as well as excited pups who love to frolic (count Norman among them), the mood was buoyant, the pace was slower and the smiles nearly ubiquitous. Mother Nature again reminded us all to never give up.

Often after much hard work with no results, we can be tempted to stop. We can be tempted to accept that our efforts are not producing the results we want, nor will they ever. But the truth behind much change is (1) it takes time; and (2) the change seems to reveal itself spontaneously in big leaps.  Think about the second point for a moment. How many times did it take you to learn how to walk? While most of us probably don't remember, our parents most likely do, and for most of us, our attempts were numerous. But when we finally were able to successfully walk on our own, on two legs without holding ourselves up, a significant shift forward was made. Like I said, change seems to happen in big leaps (or steps, depending upon how you want to frame it). 

If you are working toward a goal or have been focused on accomplishing a resolution, but the results aren't tangible yet, do yourself a favor and do not stop striving toward it. The change you seek will come. Probably not when you expect it, and perhaps not in the form you are expecting it, but it will come so long as you keep investing your energy and stay focused. 

And as for the snow, there is an 80% chance of snow all weekend. Needless to say, I am making sure we get in one more ski run (cross country) before March arrives. After all, when opportunity arises, it is important to grab hold. But that is another lesson for another time.

In this week's newsletter, listeners enjoyed a French-themed episode of the podcast on Monday, as well as a post dedicated to one of my favorite essential items in my capsule wardrobe. And while I live in a town that loves winter, I know not everyone is a fan. So Wednesday's Seasonal Inspiration post shares nine ways to lift the winter blahs (not the severe winter blues, just the hum-drum, ready for spring feeling that begins to arise this time of year). 

Last but not least, as newsletter subscribers I have a special opportunity for you to appear in the second TSLL book being released in November of this year. How? Similar to the first book, I will be including testimonials from readers on why they enjoyed either the first book and/or TSLL blog. Your first name, city, state and country will be listed. Only a handful will be selected. If you have read Choosing the Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman's Guide and enjoyed what you read or would like to share why you enjoy the blog, email me by Thursday of next week with a short blurb (1-3 sentences long), your first name, city, state and country, and your submission may be chosen to be included (my email is info@thesimplyluxuriouslife.com). In the subject line please include "TSLL's 1st Book/Blog Testimonial".

Now to the weekend! Wishing you a wonderful final weekend in February. May it be cozy and something to savor. Until next week, I'll see you on the blog.