It happened during my most recent trip to Minnesota. For me it was an epiphany.

To my amazement the things I used to complain about endlessly (ad nauseum) when I lived there were the things I enjoyed the most.

For the first time the cold was not something something I merely endured – it actually felt good .

People bundled up with boots, scarves, and thick coats didn't look dorky – they looked comfortable.

Phrases such as uff dah and you betcha didn't make me grimace - they made me smile.

Smoke curling from the chimneys wasn't just another sign of winter – it looked inviting.

Instead of dread when snow flurries arrived - I felt excitement.

And although the trees had already surrendered their bounty, the leaf covered lawns and sidewalks looked like a patchwork quilt of color. Magical comes to mind.

It was all I could do not to scoop them up.

I asked my son if it seemed as glorious to him. He looked at me like I was crazy.

But there was too much splendor to just ignore it. And it was everywhere...drop-dead, outrageous, wondrous beauty.

How could all of this have escaped me the many years I had lived there?

Unfortunately I know the answer and I don't like it.

The ocean, the graceful palms and the warm weather in Delray are harder to take for granted. But with a little effort it can be done. I talk to people everyday who can't wait to leave here for greener pastures.

I doubt I will ever again experience such a childlike appreciation of my surroundings. And I wish this learning experience had come to me a little sooner in life.

But now I know. Where ever I am – paradise is right in front of me. All I have to do is see it.

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