Maybe it'll snow?

The forecast is calling for snow. Actual, a few-inches-worth snow. 

We've had a pretty dismal, unlovely winter so far--granted, it's been a lot easier on heating bills, on driving, and not having to wear boots daily has been nice. But the dead-looking landscape is depressingly gray/brown. The ski resorts, upon which our local economy relies for much of their revenue, are struggling to keep trails open, mainly with manufactured snow. A major fundraiser for the local snowmobile club is not looking likely at this point. None of this bodes well.

The brand-new red sled we got for Holly is still in the den; she likes being pulled on the carpet, but it's not quite the same thing as being outside in the crisp air. At this rate, she'll outgrow her snowsuit I got her before she's worn it. 

Climate change, yes. The rest of the country seems to be buried in snow, far too much of it causing damage, delays, and death. I don't want that, please understand. But a little bit would be good. No one should be seeing early bulbs popping through the soil in January in this zone. And some maple syrup makers were starting to boil already. Not normal.

I had to laugh a little yesterday while reading the local online QandA forum on Facebook: new residents to our town were asking when the ice rink would open and where the best sledding hill is located. I wanted to say, "when we have cold enough days and nights to freeze water" and "first, we need snow," but I didn't. No point. They'll figure that out, or someone else with less restraint will reply.

The weather man on Channel 3 says that Vermont is down a foot and a half in "usual" snow totals. That translates into possible drought coming, adding to the other problems. I know we need to figure out how to pivot if this is going to be the "new normal" (wow, two buzz phrases in one sentence!), but for today, let's hope it happens. Just a little, not a snowpocalypse. Just enough to let us use the sled.

Take care,

C