Winter can be difficult. We face shorter days and low temperatures. But it is a perfect time to reflect and savor the simpler pleasures in life: talking with friends, reading books, catching up on films, learning something new.

Unless we are enthused or obliged, we may question the value of venturing outside. Putting on our hats, boots, gloves, scarves, sweaters, and coats takes time. But the bare trees yield different views of the sky and a chance for us to see our world anew.