It has been snowing since yesterday morning. The news inflates and catastrophizes the forecast, “Biggest snowfall in 35 years on its way! Fourteen inches!” Not even close. This is Michigan. It’s winter. A six-inch snowfall shouldn’t be astounding or frightening. Snow is what should be happening.
This girl’s been outta the South for more years than she wants to count. But snow will always be magical. I love how it hushes the world. How the sky is so white, and full of what’s to come. I don’t know if there’s a weather-word for a sky full of snow, but pregnant comes to mind. Even last night, as we got into bed, the sky was pale with snow to come.
We’ve shoveled and have taken out the snowblower. Our sweet young neighbor bought a huge snowblower last year and blew our driveway clear last night and this evening as well. Martin and I have just come in from another quick sweep and shovel. It’s light snow now. Not laden with the ice and weight of this morning’s fall.
When the snow chore was done I laid down and made an angel. The sky, having snowed herself out, was darker than last evening’s. The tree limbs spread in a tangle above me. Two leaves, brown and crisp yet still hanging on, rustled as the winds passed through. It was such a glorious moment — exhilarating, cold, and cozy all at the same time. Sixty-five years on the planet and I’m grateful I can still get down and up to make a snow angel. I’m even more grateful that such a simple thing can still bring me such joy.
Description of snow is awesome, having left the northeast, can remember it so well.
Thank you, Clare!
I love your snow angel! I also love your comments about Michigan snow and the fuss made over a snowstorm. The forecasters make it difficult for us to believe weather reports.
I remember trudging to elementary school some 80+ years ago. Those are some of my best memories of my childhood. Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow — and let’s remember the ‘good old days’ while we watch from inside our warm homes.
You got it, Nancy. And yes, it’s good to watch it snug inside a warm house!
I agree with you, when the forecasters hype the weather it does make one
tend to ignore their “dire warnings.” If only they would be matter of fact
and also reckon with the reality that their listeners know what to do
when it snows!
Debra, I can just see you lying there having the time of your life! Moving your arms and legs like a child full of joy! With a huge smile on your face. You bring the best out of any situation, and although I’m here in the south, I can taste and feel that northern snowfall through your beautiful descriptions. Thank you, as always for this!
Aw sweetie. You are so welcome! I grumble about the cold, but
it has been bracing and invigorating as well.