SNOW-IS CANADIAN SNOW DIFFERENT?

I don't think so. Snow is snow! Apparently there is less snow everywhere across our great nation this year. For those of us who need to shovel driveways or drive long distances, it is not a bad thing. There are so many ways to describe snow- wet, slushy, white, dirty, and heavy. Some snow is good packing snow to make a snowman. There is a light snow, heavy snow and a blizzard- batten down the hatches! The Inuit in Northern Canada are supposed to have many words for snow but actually they have the same number as English. It is the Sami People in Europe who have over a hundred words to describe the white stuff. Winter pictures with snow are beautiful. My younger daughter was married in the winter so has some outdoor shots with the snow in the background. Walking in the snow burns more calories. All those sports that need snow- skiing-downhill and cross country, snowboarding, sledding, toboganning! Well burn those calories! Playing with children in the snow- love those snow angels! Catching snowflakes and eating them! Snowball fights! Snow forts!

One of my favourite snow activities is to sit in a warm room at a lodge or even my family room in the suburbs, watching a light snow come down, explaining how beautiful while I read or knit, then sip a hot beverage such as coffee or hot chocolate periocially, all cozy! Do you have a favourite snow activity? Or do you just tolerate it until Spring?

ANOTHER WINTER WONDERLAND

Occurred last night. Before I began the day, I could not resist the urge to take some last minute winter photos before Spring arrives in a few weeks. Although we are all getting tired of winter, it is a season with its own beauty and outdoor activities. Do we stop enough in our lives to enjoy the simple moments presented to us?

My angel chime in the plum tree, had a small dusting of snow. It was this image that enticed me to grab the camera. Do you see moments in your life that are a photo opt? Do you take advantage or let the moment slip away?

THE LULL AFTER THE STORM

The GTA was supposed to have a blizzard this week but by Wednesday it was just a winter storm. Cleanup was good with few accidents or incidents. We Canadians love to talk about the weather. What always makes me laugh is the reaction to a downgraded storm! So many workmates were saying- it wasn't so bad, driving was okay, what was the fuss! I always think- did you really want a terrible storm? Instead of relief and being glad it was manageable- many people seemed annoyed! I prefer storm warnings so I can be prepared- get some milk, check the batteries in the house in case of a power outage, know what the kids are doing! Winter storms are okay that way- the system makes its way slowly! It's the summer storms with a tornado warning that are the surprises. When it comes to weather, we really are a fickle bunch. On the other hand, weather does give us something to discuss! Hi, how are you? Sure is cold outside! But then not as cold as other parts of Canada- look at the temperatures in Winnipeg and the Maritimes are digging out from another bad storm!

PLAYING IN THE SNOW

While playing in the backyard with my

grandchildren, it made me think of the joys experienced with snow in my life. Nothing special occurred- we shovelled all the snow on the back porch into a big pile in order to make a future snowman when we have good packing snow for the head; wandered on the garden paths and made some snow angels. Little children can make play out of anything- a shovel, stick and snow! I was viewing the experience from the child's point of view. With all the gadgets, flashcards, electronic devices and the push to have little children constantly trying to be smarter and more advanced for their ages, the concept of imagination and cooperative play can be pushed aside. A backyard of snow and the fun of being outdoors was enough for the kids! Their parents take them skating and I believe some sledding activities will occur over the winter. The romp in the yard however brought lots of enjoyment! The grandkids wanted to stay outside longer-it was Nana who became cold and wanted the warmth of indoors! Can you make creative play from snow? Can you become the little child enjoying the simplicity of it? Can you put your gadgets aside taking in the outdoors?

CHRISTMAS MOVIES

Every year I watch the same Christmas movies over and over. The Christmas Carol - the original black and white one with Alister Sims is one of my favourites. That Magic Christmas has been playing on the television. Just watched Love Actually again for another year. The Bells of St. Mary, The Christmas Story, The Santa Claus, Home Alone, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, The Little Drummer Boy are favourites for young and old. Every TV show has their Christmas specials with sappy themes. Why do we watch them? To make us Cry? To make us feel for the season? Christmas with movies is part of our lives. Love them and watch them over and over. What is your favourite movie?