Florida has snow!!!

A few days ago, northern Florida had a freak snowstorm. Here in the panhandle, we got almost 6 inches. It was everywhere; roads were shut down, people lost power, but we were all elated to have this winter wonderland. Snowmen were proudly displayed in front of houses with snow-covered lawns. Children and adults alike had snowball fights and made snow angels. My girls, my neighbors, and I gathered on our back porch around the firepit, drinking hot drinks and watching the snow for almost the entire night that it snowed. We wanted to catch every moment of this historical event.

I live in Florida for three primary reasons that shape my life and experiences: 1) my family, who provide unwavering support and love; 2) my husband's job, which offers stability and opportunities for growth; and 3) the climate, which is significantly milder in winter compared to the harsh, biting cold of northern states. I have Raynaud's Syndrome, a condition that causes my blood vessels to constrict excessively in response to cold temperatures, leading to severe discomfort and pain in my hands and feet. This medical condition necessitates my residence in a warmer climate, as the heat plays a crucial role in improving my circulation and overall comfort. While I have dreams of snowy winters and the beauty they bring, the reality is that the cold can be quite detrimental to my extremities.

This Florida snowstorm found me bundled up to an almost comical extent. I donned lined leggings, two pairs of sweatpants, a long-sleeved shirt, a cozy sweatshirt, a heavy winter jacket, thick wool socks, fur-lined boots, a snug toboggan hat, and a pair of gloves layered under my mittens. Despite this formidable array of winter gear, I still felt the chill creeping in, reminding me of the harshness of the cold. However, despite the discomfort, my enthusiasm for the winter wonderland around me prevailed. We laughed together at my layered appearance, but I was determined to make the most of the experience. I ventured outside, eager to embrace the beauty of the snow-covered landscape, even if it meant enduring some discomfort. This experience led me to ponder a deeper question:

How often do I allow weakness, pain, fear, or discomfort to prevent me from fully enjoying life? And how about you? Do you find yourself held back by similar feelings?

It is a thought-provoking inquiry that challenges us to reflect on our own limits and the barriers we sometimes impose on ourselves. Can we push ourselves to discover ways to savor the moment, even when faced with obstacles? Whether it involves layering on clothing to combat the cold, taking a deep breath and confronting our fears head-on to embark on an adventure, or finding alternative methods to engage with life's experiences, there is always a pathway to enjoyment. Perhaps the act of building a snowman in frigid temperatures may be too painful for some; instead, we can choose to appreciate the creativity and joy of others who partake in such activities. We need not inflict discomfort upon ourselves to partake in the joys of life. Instead, we can find fulfillment in simply observing and cherishing the moments around us. We can gather with loved ones, wrapped in blankets, clutching steaming mugs of hot cocoa, and watch as snowflakes drift gracefully to the ground. We can delight in the sight of children laughing and playing as they build snowmen, their joy infectious even from a distance. It is essential that we cultivate a sense of wonder and appreciation for the moments we encounter, regardless of our circumstances. We must not allow these fleeting instances of beauty and joy to slip through our fingers unnoticed. Each day presents an opportunity for us to embrace the magic of life, to revel in its beauty, and to find ways to enjoy it, no matter our limitations.