The First Snow

I woke up this morning to see glimmering flakes falling outside of my bedroom window. Ryley had been patiently waiting, perched at the edge of the bed, waiting to explore winter’s transformation. I put on my puffiest coat, fluffiest hat, and tall fur-trimmed boots, ready to start our journey.

There is something magical about the first snow of the season and Mountain Town is especially bewitched with its winter wonderland views. As Ryley and I walked onto the deck and down the stairs, we were enveloped in the muffled silence created by clouds of ice blanketing the streets and peaks, only to hear the soft crunching as we made our way down the ski-in/ski-out path. The ice sparkled like diamonds paving the way for Ryley’s cold weather zoomies, scooping up snow in his mouth, twirling around in circles, and hiding behind packed layers hoping that I would join in his game. Ryley had taught himself how to play hide and seek. He would crouch down behind a snow-covered bush, or fluffy piles at

the edge of a driveway. Thinking that he was completely hidden, yet partially exposed as his tail gave away his location, swaying left to right with excitement. Of course, I would pretend to lose him. “Where is Ryley?” I say, as he patiently waits for me to get closer. “There he is!” I exclaim, as I “find” him. He perks up, and twirls around, barking and smiling as searches for another spot to cloak his black and white fur.

This goes on until he settles into the quiet cadence of the morning’s walking meditation. The serenity of our surroundings settled in, and we observed nature’s display as the vibrant red cardinal appeared, in stark contrast to its white canvas. This peaceful moment will be forever carved into my memory, as one of those special snapshots when time stood still.

Until next time,

❤️ Olivia