Late Winter Snow

There are three types of snow days that tickle one's senses: the first snow of the season, the first huge snowfall and a late winter snow. The first two types need little explanation. The first snowfall is delightful. Kids and adults alike can be found outdoors, catching snowflakes on their tongues, cleaning up skis in preparation for winter skiing and digging out all the warm and comfortable sweaters, scarves, hats and mittens, lovingly stowed away since  past spring.

The first large snowfall of the year is, for many, an unofficial holiday. Many school and businesses are closed. Often people stay in bed a bit longer, warm and snuggled amongst the winter comforters and wool blankets. Woodstoves are ablaze, filling the air with curls of smoke and the fragrant scent of wood burning.

However, and many will disagree with this statement, one of the best snows are the late winter snows. Because they are so late in the season, shoveling does not need to be as precise, most likely in a day or two the sun will shine and melt most of the snow anyway. Ofttimes, this will be one of the last snows of the year, so the chances for x-country skiing are few until the next winter. Many of the birds have returned. If you are fortunate enough to take a walk in the woods during or immediately after the late winter snow, you will be blessed with a forest full of bird chattering, cold, fresh air bracing your nose and cheeks and the feeling of being truly alive.

Central Pennsylvania has its beauty in all seasons, but its beauty in winter may be vastly under appreciated. This year make an effort to follow the PA Quilt (and Rug) Trails during the last few weeks of winter. Enjoy the beauty that is free and yours for experiencing.

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