It started around noon on Thursday, and continued through the night, dumping more than an inch an hour onto us. My aunt and uncle were visiting from Arizona for a couple of days and I was a little afraid they wouldn’t make their flight out of Portland on Friday morning, but fortunately, Augusta only got a few inches.

We got a bit more than that. If I had to guess, I’d say we have a little over two feet in most places, though the drifts come halfway up my thigh. Digging out was a joy, and our prissy chickens decided they didn’t want to come down into their run for water, opting to eat the snow off their stoop instead. It was far too deep for little legs, and several “rescues” were made before Sweebee and Beans gave up altogether.

Today, however, things were a little more fun. A sledding party was held on the biggest hill in town, right behind the library and above the fire hall, complete with a campfire for hotdogs and marshmallows. The snow was a little loose and dry to pack down a proper sledding track, but we did alright. I was struck by the fact that all the parents showed up in snowpants, ready to play – which I love.

It was a bright and beautiful way to end the year – coming together with these families we’ve gotten to know, seeing our children playing together, and feeling the comfort of community.