A Christmas Wish

Remember the joy of snowflakes falling on your nose and eyelashes. Don't forget to try to catch them with your tongue.

Last night we had our first snow of the season. Actually it was late, because we often have at least one good snow in October or early November. We only got a little bit, about an inch to cover the ground. Everything looks pristine with new snow. The leaves and branches covering the ground just disappear.

Most of my life, I have lived in the country. Not deep in the country, but outside the city limits. When I was younger, sometimes we had to wait for the snow plow to come along before we could leave. Those were the days of snow boots, and scarves, and hats and mittens that I didn't think I needed to wear. That's probably why I am always cold now! Do you remember snow forts and snow balls? Snow men and snow angels?  Maybe I'm wrong, but I remember long winters with lots of snow and hot chocolate and waiting to see if school was going to be closed for the day. We used to make snow ice cream without even worrying about the eggs and the chemicals. I guess the first snow must make me nostalgic.

It's been a long time since I've made a snow angel, but I still try to catch snow flakes on my tongue. I'm sure it must be a sign of good luck. 

A LITTLE BIT OF PAPER CRAFTING

Making paper snowflakes is a fun and easy winter craft. Snowflakes can be made from all kinds of lightweight paper. Some examples are computer paper, brown paper, book pages, coffee filters and cupcake papers. There are lots of directions for 3-D snowflakes on the internet. Surprisingly, they are made from paper lunch bags and are quite striking.

If using regular paper, you will need to start with a square. Fold into four quarters and then fold those into triangles. And then start cutting. V-shapes, hearts, and slits along the folded edges work the best. Use a paper punch if you like to make holes. They come in all sizes, including hearts and stars. Experiment. Just like real snowflakes, every one should be different. Round papers can be cut the same way. Decorative scissors can be used on the edges, or they can be dipped in glue and glitter if you like.