Winter Wonderland

The local news cracks me up whenever we have winter storms like we've had the past week. They take it so seriously and give it some intense name like Arctic Blast 2008. Last week, I just kept getting irritated because they were predicting all this snow, but we never really got much. We would get an inch or so, but then it would either blow away or melt away. The kids never even got a chance to play in it. The one day that there was enough snow to play in, they had school, and by the time they were home, the snow was pretty much gone. We did miss a couple days of school, but there really wasn't much problem on those days. Our school district's policy is apparently No Snow: No school, Snow: School, and see what all the other districts around you are doing and do the complete opposite. Most schools around here missed at least 4 days. I guess we'll be the lucky ones who don't have to spend two more days in school before summer vacation can start.

So yes, as far as last week, it was pretty much an annoyance more than anything, and there was a lot of bitter cold and wind. It wasn't too much fun. But then they predicted our biggest storm with the most snow for this past weekend, and this time, they didn't disappoint. Over the weekend, we got over a foot of snow. There was also a layer of freezing rain in there, but it wasn't too bad--at least not for us. And even though it is cold, there is no wind, so it is pretty nice outside. It truly is a Winter Wonderland right now. We have been able to go out sledding for 3 days now, and I'm sure we will today and for as long as the snow sticks around. We have the perfect sledding hill behind us on the school grounds. About half the neighborhood is usually up there, but there is plenty of room, and the kids have a great time sledding with all the neighborhood friends. If the weather has made getting around for people difficult, last night was NOT an indication. We went out to dinner at Olive Garden, and it was packed there. It didn't help that Red Robin and Spaghetti Factory nearby were both closed. They missed out on the number of people with cabin fever just wanting to get out to do something. Sorry to our friends, the Goves, that did not manage to get into Olive Garden to eat after already checking at RR and SF. Hopefully you found somewhere to eat. :)

They are calling for another bout of snow to come in tomorrow on Christmas Eve. For the first time since 1938, we will most likely have a White Christmas. I am really glad that we didn't plan to go to Indiana for Christmas this year because the airport is a mess right now. Dale's parents are coming in Christmas Day, and I really hope they don't have problems getting here. It will definitely be a very special Christmas.

Owen is never too excited to get in his snow gear. He likes it for a brief time, but then just wants to come in.

Dale bringing the kids home after their 2nd time out for the day.

A good portion of the neighborhood comes out to play.