Snow

A few weeks ago, we had an early first snow here in Connecticut. It didn't last long, within 48 hours it had all melted away, but that first night it was fresh and full of the excitement and possibility that first snows seem to invoke. New snowfalls make me think of Carrie.

One rare snowday in seventh grade, Carrie, Debi and I decided to take advantage of our day of freedom to go shopping. Fully clad in snowgear that made it difficult to walk, we made the trek from my house to the TJ Maxx three blocks away, and then all the way back to Carrie's house. Unplowed streets were still and peaceful, and we were occassionally passed by a traveler on skis. Sheets of white stretched out before us as we made our way, noting the heavy silence of normally busy streets. When we arrived at the house, we made hot chocolate and put on a fashion show with our new purchases, taking turns doing each others' hair, consulting on outfits, and taking pictures of the final product. It was a fun day.

A few years later, one monday night during December of our senior year, I had invited Carrie to an ETHS Hannukah party, and she had invited me to a youth group event. We decided to make it into an interfaith-night. It had snowed heavily, and getting to the house was challenging and a little scary. Carrie was driving and the mini van got stuck a few times along the way. I most clearly remember the walk to the house after we had parked several blocks away. We took our time, chatting and taking in the scenery as a light snow gently fell on the 16 inches that had already accumulated. She talked about her new boyfriend, college essays, and the upcoming Kairos retreat she was leading. It was a time full of new beginnings and she had so much energy. I remember her laughing a lot.

I think there is something about snow, how soft and protective it feels, that reminds me of her apart from these specific memories. I can't wait for more snow.