I woke up this morning to my husband getting ready for work bright and early. His tooth brushing and dressing woke our daughter who made sure he knew she was awake and would need a hug and kiss before he left for work. I got one of those hugs and kisses too, but tried to hang on to sleep a bit longer.
Shannon sneaked upstairs to turn on cartoons and I finally started to wake up. I thought about technology and fought the desire to grab my smart phone while I watched the snow falling outside. I gave in.
I thought I could get away with a quick dash to let the chickens out, but 6 inches of new snow sent me back in for my hat and gloves for a full shovel/food/water duty. Before coffee.
I am grateful for the snow and the chickens, that forced me out of the house and into to the bright clean world. Forced me to get my blood moving with some shoveling. Led me to a friendly conversation with our neighbor who oh-so-kindly shoveled the driveway for me and invited us over for a barbecue when the snow finally melts.
A whole lot of mornings have started this way this Winter. The snowiest Winter since I moved to Montana. The year that my daughter is four with all the strength and smarts of a child and all the emotions of a toddler. All the cuteness of a toddler too. I'm hanging on to those sweet little baby cheeks, but ready to move on from the melt downs.
Mostly I'm ready to move on from this Winter. I will take a few more lazy mornings sleeping in, a few more squishy snuggles on the couch. Just around the corner I'll be out there in shorts and flip flops watering the garden. Just around the corner she'll be reading me stories, going to sleepovers and making her own lunch.
As I'm typing Shannon comes near, I notice an eyelash on her cheek and introduce her to a tradition that is brand new to her. Her wish? That daddy could stay home and everyday could be family day. Right now is pretty good.
