A winter storm warning hovered over New England. The anticipation bubbled within me. I haven’t been home for a true winter storm in over a decade. Excited was an understatement. Peeking through the windowpane every hour or so, hope was weary, as I watched and waited for the first snowflakes. The hours ticked by slowly. The bitter cold started to settle into my bones as I kept cracking the door open. The sky was dark illuminated only by streetlights. Glancing toward the closest streetlight, I saw fluffy flakes falling. Before snuggling in bed, I continued to look out the window. The accumulation was still minimal. I couldn’t sleep as the anticipation continued to rise.

This morning as I opened my eyes, white shined through the windows. Every inch of the outdoors was covered in snow.

Hurrying to put on snow boots, a snow coat and gloves, the winter wonderland was calling my name.

No holding back was required as I spun around, opened my mouth wide to catch snowflakes and fell backwards to make a snow angel.

Childlike wonder on days like this I pray will never get old. Something simple and annoying to others, was my dream for the winter. This made up for no snow on Christmas morning.

The bright, white freshness of snow reminds me of fresh starts. No matter how many times we fail, God will never give up on us.

No matter how hard things may seem, keep going. Lean into our loving Saviour. He will carry us through.

I hope today on the first week of the new year, whether your surrounded by a winter wonderland, rustling leaves or palm trees, that you find joy in the simple moments. Enjoy the beautiful creation God has created.

Here is a winter poem I wrote today as I watched the beautiful snow fall and some pictures of this snow day: