Meanwhile, during "Nemo"

Everyone at home is enjoying the beautiful weather that comes with winter in New England during what some are calling the biggest storm in years. I've seen it referred to as the "snowpocalypse" and "snowmaggeden" - much like the huge storm in 2010.

Having been born, raised, and lived in Maine all my life; I love all four seasons. Truly, I do! Granted, there are times when I look forward to summer during the winter etc. but for the most part one of the biggest reasons I love living in New England is that there are all 4 seasons. I get to enjoy all the wonders of the weather without too much of any one thing.

Spring brings growth and new life and the world waking up from its winter slumber. Summer brings sunshine, blue skies, and a sense of relaxation. Autumn/fall brings the wonder of the leaves changing colors, cooler temperatures, lower humidity, a return to more of a set schedule, and a feeling of settling in. Winter brings cold temps, freezing water, the holiday season, a sense of gathering together, and, of course, SNOW!

I swear, I am still a little kid at heart, and that is emphasized every time it snows. There is just something about the snow that makes everything beautiful. After all, snow is white, and white is often thought of as a color of purity. But not only that, when it snows everything sparkles and shines and is covered in a coat of white, as though everything was given a clean slate. In addition, I still get a feeling of anticipation and hope that there will be enough snow for snow angels, snowball fights, snow-people creating, and SLEDDING!

There is nothing like spending a few hours outside racing down a hill, feeling the rush of the world flying around you, and then burning calories hiking back up the hill just to do it all over again. And then, after all your extremities are numb, heading back inside to relax with a steaming mug of hot chocolate with marshmallows.

Last year (2011) the weather during the actual season of winter was light. We got some snow, but not as much as usual. That is, unless you count the close-to-15 inches Massachusetts got Halloween weekend...with that storm though we hardly got to enjoy the snow. During the storm, we had to stay inside whichever building we were in due to falling tree branches and wind and blue lightning. And then, when the snow finally stopped there was no room or time to spend in the snow, because pieces of trees were everywhere, power lines were down, and everyone that could was sent home for a week, and by the time we got back, all the snow had melted...

This winter (while I was home) we had snow, not a ton initially, but we had some and it even snowed on Christmas. And then we got a few storms which provided enough for a group of us to go snow tubing, but this storm (Nemo) is the kind I truly enjoy. Enough to cancel school, shut down roads, and keep everyone safe inside, surrounded by the people they love to enjoy the beautiful silence of the falling snow.

I am honestly jealous that I am missing the storm. I realize storms can be a hassle and a lot of work, but I still love them. There is just something about a snow storm that reminds me there are bigger things in this world than just me and the small bubble that is my needs, wants, disappointments, etc. It also brings everyone together to make sure all are safe, sound, warm, and entertained. I miss that connection, my family and friends, and I wish I were home now to enjoy it and everything that comes with a big snow storm.