It won’t be long before we start seeing those little white snow flurries falling from the sky here in the Midwest. Some states further north have already begun to deal with snowfall. What’s the worst part about winter; the snow. What’s the best part about winter; the snow!

Wouldn’t any amount of snowfall be perfect if it would only land in grass? No more worrying about driving in the snow and ice, the streets would be snow-free. I’m sure all adults think this would be a great idea, however, the kids might think differently. No more snow on the streets means no more snow days off school. Kids live for snow days in the winter. I think it’s the only time my children actually want to watch the nightly news to see if their school is on the “school closing” list.

Even though the freezing temperatures and snowy driving conditions aren’t fun in winter, the season does have an upside. There are lots of activities to keep you busy in the winter. You don’t have to hibernate until spring!

• Skiing
• Sled Riding/Tubing
• Ice Skating
• Ice Hockey

Playing in the snow is something that every child should get a chance to do. My eight year old niece lives in Florida and until last year had never seen snow. They came up for Thanksgiving and we got lucky with about eight inches of snow while they were here. I couldn’t bundle her up fast enough and outside we went! After she got over the initial shock of being cold, she loved it. We made snow angels, a snow man, had a snow ball fight, ate icicles and of course went sled riding. I couldn’t get her to come inside she was having so much fun!

Winter attire is very important when going out in freezing temperatures. Make sure you have good waterproof boots, warm dry gloves, a fleece hat, heavy jacket and either snow pants or a lined pair of bib overalls to keep you warm.

This winter you may as well take the good with the bad when it comes to snow. Get out and enjoy what Mother Nature has to offer. Go sled riding with your kids, have a snowball fight with your neighbors or go ice skating on a frozen pond. Let this winter bring the kid out in you, just be sure to have the heating pad and hot chocolate ready when you’re done – you’re going to need it!