Reporter’s Notebook: Snow provides chance to look for positives
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Whether it came from Jack Frost or Elsa, the Mid-Ohio Valley was blanketed early this week with the most snow we've had in over a decade. Even though it comes with its own annoyances and inconveniences, snow is something special that everyone should cherish and appreciate.
I can certainly understand why people don't like snow or winter. Seasonal depression sets in and combined with the time change, it can make for a bleak outlook. But when a blizzard comes through, a beautiful display comes along with it, full of sparkling tress, sled riding and cozy time spent at home.
Maybe it could be because I was born during the blizzard of '93, but I've always been infatuated with snow. I love being able to wear comfortable, warm clothes, cover up with a blanket, read a book or watch movies. Oftentimes, I don't have a lot of extra time to do those things but when the weather keeps me from doing much, it can be a relief.
What I enjoy the most about a snow storm and the days leading up to it is realizing families are at home together and sometimes, finding creative ways to pass the time at home.
It could be spent playing board games, cards, hosting a talent show in the living room, building a snowman or a snowball battle. I think most people can agree some of their fondest childhood memories were spent making snow angels and forts or, in my case, ice skating on a frozen pond and the occasional walk to my grandparents' house for toilet paper or other needed supplies.
Seeing this amount of snow takes me back to those days when school was canceled for a week at a time because of the road conditions.
Living in a region where we experience all four seasons is one of the many reasons I enjoy this area. Even though the seasons have shifted over the years, no weather patterns stick around forever, and for those of you who hate winter, spring will be here before you know it.
I encourage people to dwell on the good things that can come with nasty weather.
Like anything in life, it's easy to develop a negative attitude -- and I'm talking to myself too. But sometimes, when you're able to slow down from hectic daily life -- like when you're snowed in -- it gives you more time to be grateful and change your outlook.
Candice Black can be reached at cblack@newsandsentinel.com