WALKING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND

December 21, 2017

Have you ever had one of those absolutely perfect days where even the smell is engrained in your memory? Well, I have had a few such days, and being that it is the middle of December, the first day of winter, and I’m longing for some cooler weather (really these 85 degree days need to stop), I thought I would share my favorite winter day memory with all of you.

Sometimes it is hard to believe that snow days really are a thing. Here in Southern California, winter weather often brings unusually dry, warm weather with Santa Ana winds blowing in full force. That certainly has been the case this year! I’m not sure how many of you know this, but I went to New York University for graduate school. As I write this it is hard to believe that I graduated almost four years ago. I experienced many wonderful and cultural events living in the big city, but one of the highlights of my two years living in New York City was being there at Christmas time. The city is so magical, with Christmas markets, sidewalk Christmas tree vendors, shop window displays, and most importantly the magic a snow day brings.

On December 17, 2013, I experienced my most perfect snow day. The weather reports warned of a blizzard, the first big snow storm of the season, and being from sunny California, snow was still a novelty. My classes were done for the semester and I was just staying a few days longer to experience the city just a bit longer before heading home for the holiday break. When I woke up it was already snowing, and I remember seeing the most perfect white fluffy snowflakes floating down from the sky. I was in complete awe and still think it is one of the most beautiful sights of nature I have ever seen. I quickly dressed in my warmest of clothes. Not knowing what one wears in the snow, I think I must have had on about three layers of clothing plus my rain boots. With my camera in hand I walked the few blocks to Washington Square Park, which had quickly become my favorite spot in the city, and just took in the sights and sounds as the snow fell softly all around.

I was so surprised at how many little critters were even out and about in the snow. The birds perched with puffed up feathers for warmth and the squirrels bounding in the snow with ease. My favorite little friend was the absolutely adorable Edgar the dog, who was having a ball flopping around in the snow and barking at the few brave squirrels who dared to cross in his path.

The park is relativity small, but its glimpse of natural beauty was breath taking. I remember sending pictures and video texts to my family to share in the experience. On the way back to my apartment, I stopped for hot tea at Argo Tea, my favorite tea shop, for a cup of Earl Grey Crème hot tea. To this day, the smell of Earl Grey tea always brings back the happy memory of this winter wonderland walk through Washington Square Park.