With winter upon us, you may be growing weary of the bare trees, cold temperatures, and short days. It’s true that finding the beauty in this chilly season may require a bit more searching than its counterparts with their bright flowers, long days, and magnificent leaves. Perhaps it’s the Wohelo in me, but winter has always held strong as one of my favorite seasons. The challenge of discovering its mysterious beauty intrigues me, and the silence and solitude which accompany that search renew my spirit.

I took a walk around campus this morning to immerse myself in the beauty of this season. This is what I found…

The garden isn't as lush as it is in the summer, but there are still things growing. 

The bridge to the campsites

Three Falls is very full after a heavy winter rain. 

During my walk I was excited to find myself in a tunnel of green, just as in the summer, thanks to the evergreen Rhododendrons.

If you look closely you'll see that the fishing pond actually has a little ice on the surface. 

Winter beauty is all around you, and though you may be eagerly anticipating the carefree, barefoot days of summer (I definitely am), I encourage you to go out and find it.