I know how much joy the beach brings my family, but never did I anticipate just how happy two snow days could make them. Even me, a hot weather gal, was elated for this yea’rs first snow. Perhaps it was because it happened at a perfect time, just before Christmas (so festive!) and not at the tail end of winter when we have already been so cold for so long, cooped up inside dreaming of sunny days. But really-back to the happiness factor. Never have I seen my kids, especially Grace (which is saying a lot because she is typically always happy) SO HAPPY. For two days there was no school, no plans, no where to go, and loads of snow. Grace stayed outside for hours until her ankles were numb and red. Elation- she was outside laughing and screaming and concocting all sorts of things she wanted to do in the snow, a bucket list of sorts. Snow angels, snow balls, snow castles – for her, it was the Frozen world brought to life. It was the perfect mix of joy and contentment. Charlotte loved it too, until she tumbled one too many times and then was happy to come inside to warm cocoa and cuddles and watch from our bay window. These kids might make a cold weather convert out of me after all. Here are a few snapshots from our first snow of the year that I couldn’t resist sharing. Enjoy!

 

Charlotte, Carly and Olaf the snowman sharing the carrot nose.

I didn’t realize how large and majestic looking the evergreens are in our yard until they were drenched in snow.

Larger than life snowman, built mostly by the man of the house much to the girls joy.

Please notice how wet she is. I couldn’t believe how long she stayed outside!

Winter clutter

A hot classic winter lunch on a very cold day.

Lou bean joined me in staying inside where it was warm and dry:)

Cinnamon salt dough ornaments. I was armed with activities for us in the event of cabin fever.

Post-snow hot cocoa

Always with a book, always in a dress.

Happy winter everyone!

P.S. Diamonds in the Rough in this month’s Raleigh Magazine by yours truly.