We have 10+ inches of snow on the ground today. Sam scooped and scooped and scooped yesterday under a blanket of grayness, and then in the darkness of last night, 4 inches fell, leaving him a full day of work again today.

Whereas yesterday was dreary and shades of ash in the sky, this morning, the yard is diamond sparkle bright, and everything is covered in white brilliance.

Mom went to heaven 8 years ago yesterday.

Mom spent her first day in heaven (as we know days) 8 years ago today.

*****

I am grateful for the beauty of snow.

I am grateful for the much needed moisture.

I am grateful for two guys in this house who take care of the sidewalk and the driveway and the steps and then take care of other driveways, too.

I am grateful for sunshine that causes squints and requires sunglasses.

I am grateful for snow storms that stir memories of 8 years ago, causing the heavy blanket hurt ache but also brings back sunshine bright memories of my Mom.

I am grateful for gray skies that bring the diamond snow. There are so many simple lessons in that…