Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

I woke this morning to a gentle blanket of snow.  For the first time in a long time, my garden looked as nice as all the neighbours gardens.

Scotland of course (hardy people that they are) have not just a gentle blanket, but several duvets of snow, causing problems for lots of people.  I wish them warmth and hot toddy's.

Snow this early in the year is very unusual in this part of the world, the worst November for 17 years apparently, but I can't help feeling a glow when I look out and see that white stuff gently falling.   It reminds me of my childhood, those hours with red noses and fingers and numb toes, but still playing outside using my mother's tea tray as a sledge and whizzing down the hills having a wonderful time.  When I was about 13 years old, back in Wales in the 60's the snow was so thick that we had to dig our way out of the front door, the windows covered so that we went down to an eerie light.  The snow lasted for weeks because the temperature stayed really low, but we still went to school, walking in our wellies, wrapped up like little ragamuffins wearing scarfs (knitted by aunties) that you would not even look at in normal circumstances.

We lived out on the edge of town, no shops so we were reliant of  mobile shops that battled through the elements to bring us food.   I don't remember too much fuss about the snow, just the enjoyment but no doubt my parents were not so keen.  My father used to go to work on his bike which is not good in the snow, so he walked about 10 miles, did a full day's work and then walked home again.   As I sit at home working on my computer and e mailing things to work, I realise how very lucky we all are.

We get upset when the car is stuck, but at least we have a car, and can work from home (well some of us) if necessary.  What really surprises me is why we always get caught out.  We have the technology to predict snow, and yet it always seems to catch us off guard and cause chaos on the roads and in schools.

Well, looking on the bright side, lots of children are having a day off to play in the white stuff. 

Wonder what the odds are for a white Christmas?