I remember the Madison “snow” of 1991. It was more like ice than fluffy snow, but for us Florida kids, it was magical. I was in fourth grade and my brother in second. Our neighbors had a nice hill that separated our house from theirs. My mom found large pieces of cardboard and my brother and I raced each other down the “snowy” bank over and over again. Sometimes we stayed on the cardboard, other times it stayed put while our behinds did the sliding. We laughed and giggled and did it again and again.

Later, we went to my grandparents’ house and all the uncles ganged up against the kids to have a snowball fight. The kids were doing well until one of the uncles started loading the snowballs with pecans. Their hiding place was under the tree by the old smokehouse and we weren’t as fortunate with our safe spot. Having nothing to load ours with in return, we worked on aim and tried hard to dodge their attacks.

These memories bring a smile to my face as we have the potential for snow this week. To people in the North, snow is normal and often a nuisance, but to us Florida folks, we get excited. And we have no idea how to drive in the ice and snow, so if you can stay home and play, do it!

Whether it’s your first time for snow or you are a seasoned transplant, enjoy this week of cold and make some memories. It doesn’t matter if you are nine or ninety, make a snowball and throw it. Extra points if you hit someone. Slide down an icy hill. Or simply sit by the window and think of happy times gone by. Enjoy each moment and make the most of this week of cold weather.