Snowy memories!

December and the Christmas holiday always mean a very busy time in my life, so it's no surprise to see that I haven't even looked at this blog since mid-December!

My delightful visit to Rochester, New York, was extended by two days, thanks to a New Year's night snowstorm. No complaints here!

Even better, when I returned to Ohio, we were blasted with more snow and extreme cold, so my Christmas break from school was also extended by two days. Serendipity for sure!

There were so many wonderful moments during my week long visit, but one small evening moment gave me a reason to smile when I returned home.

 

As I was unpacking after my return home, I decided to grab my camera and go outside to take a few photos and fill the bird feeders in the backyard. When I went to put on my boots, I felt something a little bit sharp in the toe of my boot. Upon pulling it out to investigate, I discovered a slightly crumpled package of Starbucks Via coffee...Christmas blend, which I had taken with me to New York. And then I remembered....

 

 

 This cute little guy who likes to play peek-a-boo with mommy's kitchen towels, also discovered my package of Starbucks Via packets.

Not wanting to induce unnecessary tears of frustration, we had let him continue to play with the packets and the box. Somewhere along the way, little Jackson must have toddled over to my boots, inserted a coffee packet, and then quietly returned to his play. All of which speaks to this truth...we spend money buying kids and grandkids all kinds of toys, but they are often most amused by the packaging!
                                              

                                         

Snow Days bring Christmas joy!

 

Of course, too many snow days could mean going to school longer at the end of the year, but for now, I'm taking my December blessings as they come! This week I'm scrambling with my second graders to get their clay Christmas ornaments decorated and ready to take home, so I have to admit that I didn't mind sloshing my way to school in the unexpected (at least to me!) snow early this morning.
   

Freshly falling snow is so peaceful, especially early in the morning or later in the evening. With the Christmas lights glowing softly and the hush that comes when traffic is stilled, there is a beauty that we often miss in the rush to complete our Christmas shopping, baking, house cleaning, and other holiday chores.


A snowy day, whether during the week or on the weekend, gives us time to slow down and savor the moment if we will let it. It's so easy to worry about chores not done, lessons not taught, or errands not run, but those things will still be waiting for us when the flakes stop falling and the roads are cleared.

 

So wherever you are and whatever your weather, as we get closer to that magical time of Christmas, take time to breathe in the quiet joy of the season. Let peace, joy, and quiet expectation replace the hustle and bustle, if only for a moment.