This winter has been relentless. Snow on the ground since December, temps haven’t been above freezing in a month.

When the polar vortex first descended, people stayed indoors. Restaurants and downtown venues were empty. But the most amazing thing has happened in the last week or two. Everyone has collectively remembered that we do have winter coats and hats and mittens - and that we can leave our homes, even when it’s cold and snowy. The cafes are bustling again, the restaurants and bars are full of life. The population has risen in defiance of this bitter season’s concerted effort to put us all in stasis.

It’s a quiet snow this morning, big flakes, lots of space between them. Perfect for a snow globe, perfect for a Sunday. Perfect for getting outside in winter coats and hats and mittens.