If you live in world without snow days, I am equal parts sad for you and jealous of you.
In one word, snow is work.
If you live in a place with snow, you know exactly what I’m talking about. If you live in the deep the south, you won’t believe me, even if I explain it to you.
The thing is, when I was a kid, snow was magical. It’s always magical when you’re a child. The logical portion of your brain isn’t fully developed yet, so you think everything is fun. Run headlong into a tree with my sled – yee-haw! Frostbite on my fingertips – bring it. Slide down a flight of icy stairs and end up in a cast – cool story.
When you’re an adult you know better. It hurts when you fall, something I’ve done three times already this winter.
And, yet, despite winter’s harshness, snow days remain magical.
You hope for them, wish for them, pray for them, beg for them. You eat the first flakes, and your tummy does funny little flips as the road turns white. Snow days are the best days off, even better than holidays, because they are unexpected.
Unfortunately, snow days lose some of their magic when you grow-up. If you have a snow day this winter, here are some fun ideas to pass the time.
1. Go sledding.
If you’re over five feet tall, you may have to take a few Advil after sledding, but it’s still a blast. Besides, you go faster when you’re all grown-up. Just, don’t tie your dog up to your kid’s sled. Believe me, been there, done that stupid thing. Learn from my mistakes.
2. Make yummy treats!
When I was a kid, my mom always made homemade pizza on snow days. If pizza isn’t your thing, why not try cinnamon roll heart waffles or sweet hot chocolate?
I’m partial to home-baked bread. If you need an easy, no-fail recipe, try this one.
3. Create your own art.
Time stands still when you’re being creative. Break out the markers, pencils, and craft paper, and let your imaginations run wild. Remember this super-inspiring guest post by Meg from Whatever? Go re-read it and get your craft on!
4. Go on a snowy walk.
It’s funny what kids remember. The best memories are the ones parents least suspect. Don’t underestimate the simple pleasure of taking a walk. And, if you’re feeling kind-hearted, carry a shovel along and help a neighbor.
5. Take fun pictures of your kids.
Have a snowball fight and try to capture a snowball as it leaves your child’s hand. Have your kids throw snow in the air and take some fun pictures. Make and record memories.
6. Play Games.
Our favorite is Monopoly, but Uno and Pass the Pigs are a close second. You can even break down and play a video game with your kids. Minecraft anyone?
7. Build an Olaf.
Back in the day, we just built a snowman, but now, you better make sure you’re building an Olaf.
Anna: Olaf! You’re melting!
Olaf: Some people are worth melting for.
[begins to melt, grabs his face to stay up]
Olaf: Just… maybe not right this second.
Or, you can just take a nap. That’s always a good option!
My kids have a snow day today. I hope it will be as the ones I remember from my childhood.
What does your family like to do on a snow day?
Yummy treats? I’m in!!