Finding Solitude

The end of the year, the holidays, the colder weather, and all that come with it, has always been a hard time for me. I have never liked crowds, dealing with a lot of people at one time, even like parties or large family gatherings. "I am a loner" !
We always hear that many people experience depression around the holidays. I think most of them are probably people who would like to be around other people, but find themselves alone around this time of year. I used to work with a single guy, who's whole life centered around his work environment, and everyone he associated with were the people he worked with. When the holidays came around, and everyone had a lot of time off at work, he spent the days home alone, and I think it was very hard on him every year. I know he got very depressed.
That's not me. I like my time alone. That's when my batteries recharge. I love it especially when I have something to do that I enjoy, like keeping my cars clean, keeping my house and garage clean and neatly organized, or just out walking in a beautiful, quite place, on a nice day. These things I enjoy doing every chance I get.
This year, at the end of a very stressful last seven months, I've needed that solitude more than ever before. I especially enjoy my walks in the canyon. I find myself taking more notice of the beauty and quiet, more than I ever have before. I do enjoy that time, and cherish it, and thank God for it.

Me,  enjoying the beautiful Snow Canyon State Park, near my home in Southern Utah.