Snow Days

The winter storm that hit Texas in February brought much trouble and misery—and I felt badly for all those afflicted—but I have to admit, the beauty of the snow in Austin brought me joy. It wasn't just the hushed sound of the snowfall and the thickening blanket of white setting off the green grass and blue water, but also the memories of our winters in Virginia. Our three children loved the snow, especially Stephen. He was in heaven, imagining himself an Arctic explorer making the first footsteps in the tundra. It was a one-of-a-kind experience for me, too; the only snow I had ever seen in Louisiana was a mere dusting. Before the storm arrived, Mark drove Elizabeth and Jack back home to Houston after their week-long visit, and I stayed behind to watch out for freezing pipes and other damages to the house. I waited impatiently for the snow to fall, and when it finally came, I watched it with pure pleasure, along with the flocks of robins flitting from tree to tree in our backyard. The time alone with the snow and the fire burning in the fireplace was perfect for reflection and remembering. Those happy days with Stephen and Elizabeth and Matthew sledding down the hills with abandon. Watching the falling snowflakes at the window with them, all warm indoors with the fire and hot chocolate. It sounds too idyllic, but honestly, it was that wonderful. For a child, and an adult with childlike wonder, what is more magical than a snowy day?