All across town parents and children are anxiously watching the weather to see if it will actually snow. For those who live in the north, it is hard to comprehend the excitement felt by many of us who breathlessly anticipate the opportunity to wake to a world of soft white flakes floating down and covering the ground. In fact, I found myself amused at a reminder given to me by my youngest son at the unpredictability of Texas weather.
Son: Is it going to snow?
Me: Well, the weatherman is saying it may snow.
Son: But it isn’t Easter yet.
Yes, the famous Easter snow from a few years back has remained a vivid memory in the minds of my children. Also this incident provides proof positive (if it were needed) that our Texas weather, while never quiet, is always unpredictable.
Students are interesting in their superstitions about snow. Some kids think that if they wear their clothes backwards, it will snow. I’m willing to bet that many kids are sleeping with their PJs on backward tonight. I managed to convince a couple of boys to perform a “snow dance” that involved some twirling and leaping. (Yes, I laughed…but so did they!) Other kids, however, operate under the impression that absolute answers are necessary.
Student: Is it going to snow?
Me: I don’t know. The prediction is that it will.
Student: So, is it going to snow?
Me: If the weatherman is right, it will snow.
Student: So…..does that mean it will snow?
Me: (counting to 10) I do not know. Maybe. We will find out later.
Student: Oh. So, does that mean there will be no school tomorrow?
Me: Hey…did you hear it might snow?
That was one conversation that made me feel like I was on a merry-go-round, and the big kids wouldn’t stop spinning long enough to let me get off the ride.
The excitement mounts as everyone watches the weather to see what will happen. Teachers and students alike relish the idea of a hot chocolate day. It’s a chance to play in the snow…snap a few photos…then curl up under a warm blanket with a steaming cup of cocoa. There is something special about a snow day – it’s like time stands still for a little while, and mother nature helps us all remember to slow down and enjoy each moment as it comes.
In my house, as we tucked the kids into bed under extra blankets, we assured the kids we would let them know if it did, indeed, snow. After one last hug good night I turned to leave the room. Behind me I heard a small voice, “Mom, is it going to snow?”
Thinking of my students’ excitement, my own kids’ longing, and the feeling of anticipation within my own heart I could only reply with, “I hope so!”
Christine Moore currently holds a degree from Howard Payne University and recently earned her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. She is now working on her Ph.D. in Educational Technology. Married with four children who attend Brownwood schools, Christine teaches 6th grade reading in Brownwood and has been working in education at various levels for the past 15 years. Christine welcomes your questions and comments and would love to hear from you!
