The other day, my two boys and I loaded up into our van and hit the road. My oldest could have missed a day of school, and I could have missed a day of work, but there was winter weather in the forecast. I was okay either way, but I was banking on school being closed. This wasn’t for a family emergency or some special function. It was to go see snow.
That’s it. Just the wet, white, cold stuff that you either love or you hate.
That’s not really it though, is it? You see, I had more of a mission than just “going to see snow.” I packed up snow gear, air mattresses, and extra groceries with grand visions in mind. I wanted to take my boys sledding, fall in drifts of snow with them, and see the joy on their faces when they played the same way I played as a child. I wanted to spend time making memories together.
Well, now we’re here and on day 3 of Snowmageddon in Virginia. I’m writing this as I sit quite literally snowed in, away from home, at my sister’s house. My boys and I are all piled into one cozy room like a giant sleepover. We’ve been sledding in a giant inflatable boat, made snow angels, eaten junk food, watched movies, built snowmen, and made some pretty amazing memories.
Now don’t get me wrong, this magical winter getaway hasn’t come without a few hiccups. Sleep hasn’t been perfect, one day was spent caring for a sick boy with a fever, there seems to be a nasty cold in the air, and now I actually ended up having to call into work since we can’t safely get out until tomorrow. You know what though? It’s okay.
I’ve taken advantage of an opportunity to make memories and enjoy time with my children.
I say things like “live life to the fullest” and “make memories while you can,” but I don’t know how often I really embrace it. Don’t get me wrong, I know we all have to be grown ups and do all of that “adulting” stuff. We need to go to work, pay bills, clean our houses, cook meals; all of the normal day to day things that are pretty necessary. But sometimes you have to take advantage of situations when they pop up – like perfectly timed snowstorms and family to stay with. Like a job that understands the importance of family and safety, and a husband who stays behind to work and help make it all possible.
Most of all though, I’m happy I took the chance to getaway with my boys. I think about it often, but time really does pass so quickly. These guys aren’t going to be my “little” boys for long. I’m so thankful we’re all healthy and happy and able to share these experiences.
So here’s to the beautiful white snow, the smiles on their faces, the cold red hands, and the overtired tears that came after playing outside. Here’s to making memories.
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