I think one of the things I enjoy about winter is its humbling.

We shake off frivolous things and focus on the essentials. Keeping family close, being good hosts to friends and visitors, making sure our children’s experiences of Christmas are as colourful and vivid as the memories of our own.

I also find that locals are more accepting and willing to participate for the fun of things instead of chasing gain or recognition.

The weather might be grim and frosty but I feel pretty good about things.