March can be a trying time. We look forward to the start of spring, while also still dealing with the remnants of winter. Take for example this week where we received 5″ of new snow on Tuesday night, temperatures near 50ºF (10ºC) yesterday, and the promise of more snow on Friday. A rollercoaster ride of weather typical for this time of year, when many of us just want warm spring days and flowers to arrive. We’re always in a rush to get to what’s next, without enjoying the moment. Therefore, today I’m sharing with you the wise words of Mom’s Great Aunt Dottie, as told by Angel Chuck Billy.
Aren’t We Lucky for Today’s Snow (April 4, 2024)
As Mother Nature blankets New England in a spring snow, I can’t help but reflect upon words of wisdom from Mom’s Great Aunt Dottie. Her gentle guidance was a reassuring presence in our lives, but who also made us ponder important life lessons. In March of 2017, we overheard a conversation in which after living on her own for many years, Great Aunt Dottie revealed that she sometimes missed shoveling, and wished she appreciated that final snow day at home before moving into an assisted living facility. As Mom grumbled about having to shovel yet again, Great Aunt Dottie mused, “aren’t we lucky” to be able to experience it.
Mom’s Great Aunt Dottie was right. We are lucky! Sure having 12 inches of snow fall in April is annoying, and the lights flickering has us worried about the inevitable power outage. But at the same time, it is a gift to be able to enjoy one more snow day together, because no one ever really knows when the “last” snow day will be. So if you’ll please excuse us, Asa and I have some playing to do with Mom and Dad.
2026 Update: Little did Angel Chuck Billy realize when he re-shared this post in April 2024, the countdown to his final snow day had begun. In fact, he spent his last December morning at home playing in the snow. So as we await the arrival of spring, don’t be in such a rush to say goodbye to winter. Just be in the moment. Because “aren’t we lucky” for each and every day! Angel Chuck Billy, please thank Mom’s Great Aunt Dottie for this wise lesson that continues to resonate. I hope you, Lemmy, and Great Aunt Dottie are all playing in the snow together today.
