Winter Wonderland...a myth?

I think every Texan has the same fantasy in the dog-days of summer... their house and lawn covered in powdery snow while a fire is roaring in the background. You sit by your large window sipping hot cocoa or tea (whichever you prefer) and watch the kids frolic in the winter wonderland. I think I gave in to this fantasy ALL summer long with so many days topping 100 degrees. I always imagine this majestic landscape and maybe even a deer running through the neighborhood. I don't know why I imagine a deer, it just fits in with my "Winter Wonderland" mindset.

And then, it actually happens, it starts getting cooler outside!! I start getting prepared, buy some fire starter logs and stock up on my hot cocoa. Sadly, though my fantasy hits a snag and I remember I live in Texas where it MIGHT snow once all winter and where winter isn't as fun as I imagined it all summer long. I'd like to share some things that have already put a damper on my winter:

1. Cold hands and feet. It seems as though my extremeties cannot hold any body heat. If I could wear mittens around the house without looking crazy, I think I would.

2. Cold bathrooms. Cold toilet seats. Cold bathroom floors. Cold water in the showers. Enough said.

3. Actually having to GO OUT in the cold. I think the bear population had a great idea with the whole "hibernation" thing. It sucks to go outside when its cold and wait in your car for it to warm up.

4. Winter clothing: When you have on 3 layers everyone looks a little chubbier

5. My idea of snuggling by the fireplace hasn't happened yet, and we've already had quite a few freezing nights.

Granted, I think the only reason we got through summer was our anticipation of winter. But now that winter is here (I hate to admit this) I am sort of, just a TINY bit, looking forward to warmer temperatures. Of course, winter does have it's benefits. It wouldn't be the same looking at Christmas lights, sitting by a fire, or sipping hot cocoa if it were 80 degrees outside.

Here's to hoping that you have your "Winter Wonderland" that you've been dreaming about all summer come true. For me, I'll keep on dreaming :)