WINTER WONDERLAND

As a tiny tot from pastural Tennessee My warm world consisted of all things green. Forests and valleys, rivers and lakes, Beautiful and flourishing, were all I had seen. Then my small world expanded. I travelled far With my parents to an enchanted place. Asleep in the car’s back seat, I was aroused By Mother’s shocked voice, amazement on her face. Outside, only whiteness piled high as could be, Were mountains of snow as tall as the trees. A blizzard of snow stormed all around us, Engulfed in the cold of a subzero freeze. The hotel was warm and welcoming, but I was not fazed. I only wanted to go outside and play in the snow. My father finally gave in and wrapped me up warmly. We dove into a wet whiteness as the wind slowed its flow. We threw snowballs at each other, and I missed them all. We built my very first snowman, so handsome and tall. Daddy showed me how to make an angel in the pristine snow, Shaping her beautiful wings with a silvery diamond glow. I will always remember how my view of the world changed. The happy memories we shared that snowy day will never fade. In the white vastness of a winter wonderland, beautiful but daunting, Holding Daddy’s strong hand, I was warm and safe; precious memories made. Copyright Chula Schlesinger-Fleming © Sept 27, 2024