I would love a nice, thick, heavy snowfall. A snowfall that would plunge my tiny town into a winter wonderland from the classic film It's a Wonderful Life. Walking through my town, one would think that we are decades in the past. In many ways, I must agree. We have much small town charm, and the welcome sign says as much. However, it is nearly February, and we've only had two dustings of snow.
I grew up in a small town, and it was a good life. Far from perfect, but it was still good. Some of my favorite winter memories were when my parents, siblings, and myself would all bundle up and take starlight walks through the snow. We'd turn the corner, meet up with friends, and we would traverse the town. Inevitably, we would end up in the town square and admire the snow laying on the trees and gazebo. Of course we couldn't help but make snow angels!
Once our noses were sufficiently frozen, we would make the journey home and mom would make homemade hot chocolate (recipe below). Oh, it was delightful! If we had any cookies in the house, Dad and I would enjoy them along side our steaming beverage. Mom and my siblings had a different food of choice, toast. It is a combination that Mom grew up with, and she passed it on to all except myself.
The snow has always captured my attention. I find something to appreciate from each season, which helps to offset the misery unique to each season. For spring, the green and new growth helps offset the mud and slop. In the summer, the beautiful sky and full foliage counteracts the dreadful and smothering humidity. During the autumn, the beautiful colors of the changing leaves are appreciated during the impending monotony of brown. Winter brings snow which covers the world in newness. A reminder that spring is once again on the way, and that it won't be cold and bleak forever.
If you don't live where snow occurs, I hope you get the chance to experience a good snowfall with a starlight walk someday. It's worth the experience. I'll share more of my favorite snow images that I have captured over the years, and the hot chocolate recipe for a closing. Enjoy!
1 Tbsp. Baking Cocoa (if you like it stronger, add more. I like the Special Dark powder best)
1/4 C. Cane Sugar
1/4 C. Water
1 qt. Milk
1 tsp. Vanilla flavoring
dab of butter
Bring cocoa, sugar, and water to a boil. Add milk. Heat until almost boiling. Add vanilla and butter just before serving.
