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First Snow-In Search of the White Stuff

Outside temperature on the car dashboard read 29 degrees this morning when I took the girls to school.  The mercury has taken a distinct turn in the downward direction as we eagerly await the first snow of the season on the valley floor.

It’s downright chilly, and I’m glad I had finally turned the furnace on in the house last night.  I try to wait until I’m sure winter is on the way.

Something to dread? Not a chance!  In fact, most people I’ve talked to have their fingers crossed for a deep, fluffy winter wonderland.  I’m onboard with that.

First Snow Hatcher Pass

Finding First Snow

With every storm that passes through in the Fall, Alaskans look to the mountains.  As the snow line moves  down the slope, anticipation builds.  We can’t help it!  Ski catalogues come out, sweat shirts are the norm, and luscious warm soup is frequently requested for dinner.  Really…most of us just want to play in the snow.

Not wanting to wait for snow at the house, Jeff, Summer, Saige and I decided to go see if we could drive up into it. And find it we did.

Water Droplets on Fall Leaves

Around the Lodge, Fall colors collided with winter white creating and reflecting a dramatic color palate.  White snow on bright yellow leaves is actually one of my favorite scenes in nature.

I remember when Candace was about 3 and encountered yellow aspens with a fresh blanket of snow.  She was sure it was fireworks.

Summer and Saige were looking for something a bit deeper.

Fortunately, someone in the Parks division must not have been paying attention to the weather, and neglected to close the gate up and over Hatcher Pass.  So brave winter dreamers took on the slick road, heading onward and upward.

First Snow Alaska

Rosy Cheeks and Cold Hands

We were rewarded with about 8 inches up on top.  It didn’t matter that the girls had ignored my warning to bring winter gear, they dove right in.

There may be some Alaskan blood in them yet.  Or maybe it’s the fact that they were born in Teton Valley, Idaho. Another place of epic winterness.

After a few rounds of snowball fights, hikes, and gymnastics in the snow, we headed down to find some well deserved hot chocolate and a warm fire.  It was a fun preview of what’s to come.



Fresh First Snow=A Fresh New Start

It’s been a stressful couple of weeks.  After my last post, many of you reached out to offer well wishes.  I appreciate that.

What had happened is the company that Jeff works for called him on a Sunday evening to inform us that they were selling the dental practice he works in to someone else.  That put us at the mercy of potential buyers, as they gave us no time to really sort out our options.

We do have some resolution.   A buyer reached out to Jeff and offered to partner with him.  He and Jeff clicked and I think a good thing is blossoming.

First Snow Alaska 2016

When life sends a blizzard, build a snowman!

Time will tell, but the immediate future feels a bit more secure.  I’m truly grateful for this and for answers to prayers along with support of family and friends.

In the meantime, winter is just around the corner.  We are all anxiously awaiting our first snow on the valley floor.   I have a feeling it’s coming soon…

Sisters Love Snow

September 30, 2016 By Janet Bowman Filed Under: Mountain Living, Stories from Alaska

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