When December arrives in the Northeast, we know to anticipate snow — and this week the first snowfall of winter arrived. There’s beauty and tranquility in watching the white blanket of snow float to rest on the earth. Nothing is excluded as it tenderly envelops everything in its path. “Snow cleanses our world of a weary familiarity, a taken-for-granted quality to which our eyes are all too susceptible.” — John Burnside.

Snow is an invitation to slow down and play. Early flakes melt into slush on the heated windshield — and we decelerate respectfully. “Snow brings a special quality with it — the power to stop life as we know it in its tracks.” Nancy Hatch Woodward.

Can you catch drifting snowflakes in your mouth? It's pure joy to feel pinpoints of icy coldness melt onto our welcoming tongues.

Fun in the snow is available to all of us. Neither age nor social order deny us responses that reach back to childhood.

Look up from time to time to rejoice in the beauty of interwoven tree branches outlined in white. “Winter is not a season, it’s a celebration.” — Anamika Mishra

Birds too watch the soft curls of their warm breath float in the frosty winter air.

Our furry friends enjoy romping — then resting — in the slushy white stuff. It’s a treat to cuddle into the warmth of another welcoming body.

Not everyone revels in the cold and there are creative ways to warm up.

Branches laden with powdery whiteness bow to Mother Nature. Oh the beauty of the sun setting behind majestic evergreens.

Ready or not, here comes the snow. Enjoy it!

Sources: Countryliving.com