We've still got snow...but you can actually tell that it's warmer now.
Snow fell again last night. It was still falling this morning - take a medium-heavy rainshower (no driving wind) and make it snow instead. That’s what we’ve got.
The air is warmer, so instead of doing a lot of drifting, the snowflakes (a bit thicker, a bit wetter, but still snowflakes) fell straightline more often than they drifted or flurried or meandered vaguely downward-ish. I put on my big warm coat (bought years ago from a consignment shop, but rarely worn because it’s midcalf length), put on some slip-on shoes, and stood out on the porch watching the white Christmas snowfall. Because the temperature is above freezing, and because the lowest it got last night was thirty degrees Farenheit, I watched the snow fall and listened to the drip-drip-splat of meltwater running off the roofs. There was also the sporadic clumps of snow falling out of the trees, as the snow melted enough to lose its hold on the branches.
Later today it will be nearly 40 degrees, and the falling snow will turn to the more-familiar-‘round-these-parts rain. Our next bit of groundcover will be slush, followed by potential flooding. Fortunately this complex has many drains. I’m mildly concerned about the snow in my backyard - which slopes down toward the house - possibly getting INTO the house. Then again, maybe this won’t be an issue. (I’ll find out.) As the weather warms and the snow turns to ice, some of the power lines may take a bit of abuse. Falling clumps of slush may strain or even snap some. I’ve got candles, flashlights, batteries, and a gas fireplace - so if it happens, I’m prepared. I even have my Christmas-scented tea lights: maple syrup, gingerbread, and cinnamon.
For now, though, I’m going to curl up in front of the fire with my coffee and plate of fresh gingerbread. I’ve opened the windows in the living room because while it’s still not balmy outside, I want natural light for a little while.
Merry Christmas to all. And to all a peaceful day.
