White, glittering flakes spin through the air. I stare out the window, mug of cocoa in hand, enjoying the view. I’ve always loved snow, and the magical quality of life a white landscape provides. Lately, I’d rather the snow refrain from coating the ground… and roads… with glittering slickness.

I never truly understood why my mother despised snow until recently. Snow only meant beauty, holidays and no school. I didn’t have to worry about driving on the roads, often slick with ice and covered in snow.  I’d simply sit in the car, heater blowing full blast and music wafting over me, while one of my parents attempted to navigate the deathtraps lurking on the streets. 

Recently, I secured a slip of plastic which allows me to jump in the car, back out of the garage, and drive… legally. The first time snow made its appearance, my keys were confiscated and my car driven by my father. The “wonderful winter wonderland” suddenly lost its glory and became a confining prison. I could not drive anywhere; I felt like all my hard work to obtain my license had been disregarded. I know my parents were simply worried about my safety, and honestly, after hearing some of the conversation from daring teenagers about the “fun” of slick roads, I wouldn’t want to face the daunting obstacle of the school parking lot anyway. I just don’t want snow unless I’m safety at home with hot cocoa, nestled next to a fire (which might be difficult, considering that we don’t have a fireplace).  

Snow is wonderful for setting a warm, homey atmosphere and often lends me a sense of security. However, I would prefer the snow to chill in the sky if floating snow translates to dangerous road conditions. I’m all for a snowy holiday as long as it doesn’t conflict with my driving itinerary.  Unfortunately, the weather in Canyon, Texas is like a moody teenager: there are only extremes.