On being SAD (From a wannabe snowbird)

... or having SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder).

Like many bathrooms, ours has some reading material I will peruse occasionally. A favourite is 'Another Lost Whole Moose Catalogue' ... 'a Yukon way of Knowledge' book of an assortment of articles written primarily for the influx of tourists they may see (in the summer).

A story by Mike Hodgson described Cabin Fever and SAD which includes signs of:

• a run down feeling
• a  general sadness and feeling of emptiness
• a disturbed sleep
• overeating
• lack of interest in activities
• poor concentration
• a lowering of sexual energy

Yep - I've got SAD. ... although I am sure I could find a multitude of other reasons to account for the symptoms.   

The winter has not been an easy one this year ... and it seems to be hanging on yet as there is a lot of snow out there, with some snowfall again today.  

Knowing how much diesel fuel I have gone through, I know I have spent 30-40 hr. on the tractor alone to plough snow.

The winter season started out with a feeling that it was going to be a tough one. Although; I was certainly ready for it with all the yard preparations and major jobs out of the way well before the first frost and snow. 

A tropical vacation would have been most welcome; but, it was not in the plans as our time and financial resources would not allow a 'great escape'.  

Being new in the Real Estate business, I suddenly had different visions as how to solicit some business.   But then, there may have been some other force driving those visions.

I saw many of my acquaintances and generation soaking up the sun at their Arizona retreats.

I was inspired to research the properties in that snowbird state (perhaps favoured by Albertans) and to liaise with a REALTOR® I knew to work out of Scottsdale, in thought for some referral business.  In fact, she was even a transplanted Canuck, holding dual citizenship and living in Scottsdale for several years now.

The referral consideration has been shelved at this time … perhaps a sign that things are looking better here … and perhaps a sign for something in the future.

One thing for sure - Next year, we have to absolutely plan a lot of outdoor activity, even if it is in a local arena or West Edmonton Mall.   But Arizona may get a visit … or Nevada … or Hawaii … or ??.