Balmy.

This impressive fellow was keeping an eye on me while I visited the horses. One of the things I'll always miss about living in the country.

'Tis a balmy 48 degrees! One week after it was 10 below zero. Windows are open, breeze blowing in. I hear the drip, drip of icicles melting away after 7 short days of real winter.

Sable has the best view of local ski resorts, but she doesn't seem to care. Way more interested in a cookie.

As the weather warmed, I scurried over to the stables to take the coats off the horses. They were super friendly and kind of sassy ~ kicking up their heels and running in the snow, free from the trappings of their emergency winter attire.

If the moose gets a coat, why can't the horse?

People have very fierce opinions about coats on horses.

Some say it's the worst thing in the world to do. Others claim you're terrible if you don't dress 'em up.

I take my cues from the horse. I mean... after all... who are you to pass judgement? She's the gal standing outside all night long. When the temps hit 15 degrees below zero (unheard of around these parts) I had her decked out like Randy from that great movie, A Christmas Story.

And, she seemed quite delighted with the added warmth.

I don't get this weather but then I guess nobody gets the weather. It's just all crazy, all the time.

I've filled the new house with gorgeous Amaryllis bulbs.

I will say I love January, though. Be it bitterly cold or blessedly balmy.. I don't really care.

I love it because it's quiet. Because the holidays are over and all that silly stress is behind us.

English Ivy will be transplanted outdoors, come summer.

Plus, I'm not behind on anything. An absolute rarity for this over-worked fool. I can linger with the horses. Kill time at the coffee shop. Putz around with my flowers.

Another stunning Amaryllis

And, work on some grand plans for the upcoming garden season. Which feels oddly close now that it's 48 degrees outside.

Did you make New Years resolutions? I made one. Yup. Just one. To be evil and self-serving throughout 2015.

Oh, I'm just kidding. I made this one:

I'd like this to be my new business card but I doubt anyone would be fool enough to hire me. :)

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