Chiara and I took advantage of this spring-like day by hiking around Beaver Pond at Five Rivers Environmental Center across town from us. Despite a flooded trail that prevented us from looping the entire lake and mud up to our ankles, we had a great time, watching the geese and listening to the waterfall. We stopped in the center to visit Aries, the one-winged owl who makes his home there, and then picnicked out on the grounds. It was a little cool for a winter picnic, but Chiara loved it. Spring is definitely in the air.

As we cross the threshold of a new year, can we embrace what's ahead — with all its messiness and challenge — and offer ourselves and our world compassion ...