The restoration of winter

I know you are surprised to hear me say anything nice about winter. It is not my favorite season, despite my moving ever northward. I was feeling down about winter this week, until I listened to my favorite podcast, Cast-on. Brenda was talking about Guy Fawkes night, and how it was a poor substitute for a harvest festival, which prepares you for the winter ahead.  I suddenly realized I have it all wrong. I just need to prepare for the long season of winter - and since we are hosting Thanksgiving this year for Brian's parents, it will feel like a real feast. I can say goodbye to the growing and changing of the summer, and prepare for the long restoration of winter. I know you won't mind if I say a little amen here.
There is a time to push and a time to rest.  I can console myself with wooly handknits - like these!

I can make lots of soup. I am making kale and sausage tonight (like this, but without bell pepper and adding a little pasta). There will be a lot of roasting meats and vegetables. I can cuddle my family and be thankful we are sheltered and warm in our house. I feel better already. How do you get ready for winter?