Snow Daze

February 27, 2013

As my husband shoveled our driveway yesterday, I tried in vain to recapture my youth in our late-falling winter wonderland.

He thought my zeal for it was pretty hilarious, but I’m afraid that impression was limited to just him.

While our whole block was outside engaged in either my husband’s task or mine, we were still separated by the street itself. Apparently, I made creepy overtures by attempting to get the neighborhood kids to come play the in snow with me. The looks I got when I asked them if they wanted to sled on my hill… I’m lucky I didn’t get pushed into an oven.

I guess that’s what happens when you are the "crazy cat lady" on your street, or when you mop to loud alternative rock with the blinds open for all to enjoy. Passersby's probably thought I was having a seizure. That’s certainly what happens when you turn your lights OFF on Halloween. You become that guy or gal as it is, but I digress.

So, I had no kiddos to build a snowman with me. Where were my peers?

I will say it and I know I’m not the first, friends, the snow day isn’t what it used to be.

When we were kids (and forgive me if you are not an adult and I am aging you), the snow day was a moment in time when the green light was given for sloth-like behavior. Snow days stood for sleeping in, eating junk food, and complaining that nothing is on TV, as though the cable companies should have been in league with the weather service. After exhausting all interior options, we would pour from our respective abodes set upon the pursuit of frosty frolicking and the day would truly begin.

Where are we now?

I’ll tell you where. From what I’ve heard so far today, we spent yesterday (and last Thursday and Friday) checking our email and working from the couch. Sad, but true. Did you hit the treadmill yesterday? You weren’t alone. Did you get caught up on your housework? I’ve heard plenty about that.

Maybe I’m a purist. Maybe the sloth is my spirit guide, but I still want to lounge and snack and play.

As adults, we only get so much time to be kids. Seize your opportunities.

As the last few flakes make their way down to us, know that your chance is not past. We may have the fluffy white stuff for a few more days still.

This weekend, or as soon as you can, eat something you’ll regret. Skip the treadmill. Watch a rerun, not your inbox. And for the Pete’s (whoever Pete may be), go make a snowman!

Andie P.
Claycomo Branch