Is there anything more magical than a winter snowfall? Imagine soft, white flakes drifting down from the sky, blanketing the earth, making the world pure and fresh. Snow hides everything, from your neighbor’s broken down jetski, to the dog’s latest “surprise”. In the yard, neglected toys are soon covered up and forgotten, which I count as a win, since I don’t have to look at them anymore! Eager to get out and play, I herded the kids into the laundry room and started the tedious dressing routine.
After digging out our winter clothes from the basement, it was time for a round of “why don’t these fit?” Molly, my daughter, had apparently grown eight inches since last season. Her snow pants ended at her shins, leaving a strip of jeans exposed where her boots ended. How could she have grown so fast? Andy, my two-year-old, wasn’t having much luck, either. The snowsuit that was swimming on him last year was now straining at the seams, and the buttons were holding on for dear life. All I could do was bundle them both up and hope for the best. After a twenty minute struggle involving tears and bribery, everyone was mostly dressed, and we trooped into the backyard.
I felt like a kid again as I threw snowballs and chased everyone around the yard. Even the dog was having a blast, frolicking like a puppy. Molly made snow angels, and Andy tried to figure out why his toy wagon wouldn’t move (it was frozen to the ground). We made a snowman, complete with a carrot nose and pinecones for eyes. Guess who did all the awkward rolling and lifting? Unfortunately, my snow skills must be rusty because the snowman quickly collapsed onto the ground. “It’s okay,” I told the kids, “he’s…. um…. Sleepy the Snowman. He’s just taking a nap.”
Once everyone was tired and sweaty, we headed back inside and began the disrobing process. Soggy gloves and scarves were removed, boots were kicked off, and snow pants were hung up to dry. I made hot chocolate, and Andy surprised me by getting most of it in his mouth! Yet another example of me underestimating him.
I stood at the kitchen window, watching the snowflakes dance to the ground. Times like these made the chaos fade away; the kids were smiling, the house was warm, and life was good. I’m fortunate I’m able to stay at home and watch my kids grow up. But darn it, why do they have to grow up so fast? I can’t keep buying new snowsuits every year! I’ll have spent their college tuitions on clothes by the time they’re old enough to go!
Snow is rare in our town, and it never lasts long. I’ll put up with wet floors, dripping coats, and frozen fingers to hear my kids laughing and playing outside. The beauty and wonder of a winter flurry makes it worth the hassle!
