I was waiting for snow, the last time I wrote . . . I still am! There were a few snow showers, last weekend, certainly nothing to brag about. Now, a winter storm is forecasted this weekend. Everything here is closed. We are all waiting for snow and ice. Snow is welcome -but ice with all of its’ beauty is known to break old trees and hinder power. We are as unequipped as ever, in the south and so we all stay home. Only those who must, go out. Our emergency heroes, first responders, linemen and other such noble servants, brave these unfamiliar elements so the rest of us are safe and warm.
When the forecast first hinted at inclement weather, I turned my thoughts to my usual agenda for such occasions-food and books and writing-maybe an old movie or two. We are supposed to have this thing upon us for several days. I made haste to get to the grocery store, as I knew full well, pickings would soon be slim. The stores are never at full capacity these days, storm or not. I did find what I needed to make crepes and pizza. Most things needed were already in stock in the little house on Bonnet Street, for I am likely to make anything, anytime.
Jenny had a birthday on Thursday. I used to call her “my little snowbird”, for it was likely to snow on her birthday, the few years that we get snow. Today is further proof of that.
What a treasure, my only daughter is. She was born with the heart of a mother-and a quick mind. These traits show up now, for she takes care of all of us. Jenny pays keen attention to our needs-and acts on it. If I need advice, I go to Jenny, for she has an understanding of my heart, second only to God, I think. I believe her brothers would say the same thing.
Now, Jenny is a mother-of two little girls. She is a sensible and loving mother. The “extra mile” does not intimidate our Jenny and so she knows it by heart. Of all the things that a daughter can accomplish, being a good mother “takes the cake” to me. What could matter more, after all?
I went over the day of her birth, all day yesterday. How clearly I remember the details. Some memories are recalled with precision, even after decades. I had another name picked out for the baby-two in fact for in those days, we did not know if the baby would be a boy or a girl. You had to be prepared for both. The name that I had chosen, for a little girl, was only loved by me. Her father accepted it, but I didn’t think he was so fond of it, either. When I looked at this bundle of wonder I abandoned my first choice. I decided that she looked like a “Jenny” and so she was named in that way. I remember rocking her, by the woodstove, those first days home and neighbors coming in, full of excitement. . .to see our Jenny. Now, here I sit waiting for snow, just as I did on her first birthday, all those moons ago.
While I waited, a pot of soup simmered. I was constantly looking out the window to see if snow was falling from that silver sky. It was about thirty degrees, not counting the wind chill. I have only seen snow falling a very few times, in my life, for it usually falls at night, here-if at all.
When the silver sky, grayed, sleet started. It made a tinging sound on the tin roof. We ate soup and then had a dessert of pancakes with fried apples and caramel sauce and whipped cream. I went to bed soon after . . .still waiting for snow. Kyle woke me at some odd early hour to say, it was at last snowing.
I got up before dawn to a beautiful winter scene. I think we had about four icy inches. My first thought was of the little grandchildren. Lyla has been wishing for snow for two years. Brynn does not remember snow, as she is just three. Ryan saw snow falling last weekend, but has never walked in it or really touched it! I am sure though, that this morning, all are building a snowman and maybe Ryan-a snow fort-knowing Brant.
I am not sure how icy the snow is, for I have been drinking coffee by a window. While, I was gazing out at Bonnet street in winter, a little bird flew up to say good morning. I had never seen his kind. He was gray on the back with a bright yellow stripe on either side of his breast. We stared at one another in a friendly way for a few moments and then he flew off, as if he had an appointment. Straight away, I sought to identify the lovely creature. He was a Myrtle warbler, it turns out, and he is welcomed back anytime.
Now today, the crepes are on the menu-and Kyle wants brownies. Christian chose the supper. Until further notice, I will be reading or making snow lanterns, writing or in the kitchen . . .and every time I glance out the window, I will keep my pealed on the silent beauty of a snowfall . . .and for my new feathered friend.
25 thoughts on “Happy Birthday Jenny . . .and Snow on Bonnet Street!”
First, a beautiful tribute to your daughter and a very happy birthday to her. Second, as a Mainer, I am not fazed by snow or cold. But ice or freezing rain? Quite another matter. I hate those things with a passion. A long way of saying I am with you all the way. Hope your grandchildren get a light and lovely snow and that the darned ice stays away.
Hi Laurie-it is fine to laugh at how ridiculous I am over snow! I read your chilling posts. I have experienced those temps but only for a day or so in my 62 years! I bet your cozy cottage was a postcard! You Mainers are stalwart. How do cars start? and I guess you all have cleared roads? Do your pipes burst-all that is troublesome herer. We are in single digits with wind. Stay warm! love Michele-and thank you!
As Mainers, we are used to snow and cold weather. 😉 Unless a battery is going, our cars usually start without any trouble. Yes, towns and cities clear the roads, and they do a great job. As a rule our pipes don’t burst. Most Mainers have cellars, where the pipes stay warm.
Such a lovely post to read…we have snow in Virginia as well. I too, have an only daughter named, ‘Jenny’, and she is the mother to two little girls. I have three boys, and we came up with names for them quite quickly. i did have a long list of girl’s names picked out, but “Jenny” rose to the top! 🙂
What sweet coincidences we share! I am in good company with you! I bet we share other things too. Thank you Linda-I always enjoy hearing from you. x Michele
Do be careful…my intl says a big snow/ice over your way. Here its just cold…this old hoouse is always cold in winter but seems more so this year. Must be just that I’m a year older ???surely not. Soon Spring will be peeking out and will be a welcome sight.
I just can not imagine having a warm house. We have a natural gas stove. The thing is huge but heat is not uniform. I can’t afford to run it much either! I stay behind these days, but I always smile when I see your name. x Michele
I understand. My little bit of heat is electric space heater becaus I can’t aford to run the propane ..I would rather hac=ve it for cooking. this is nothing new. I have lived this way most of my adult life…it just a little harder the older I get.. Stay healthy..that is what really maters.
Another heart warming post, Michelle. My older daughter also is Jenny, and the bond we share is lovely. Our worlds are far apart. Today the temperature forecast is 39 degrees Celsius after five consecutive days over 40. I have never seen snow close up. Enjoy your snowy time.
You have outdone yourself with this exceptionally lovely post. I’m thrilled that you pay attention to snow as I do. I’m thrilled that you found a new bird, too. Thank you for sharing this lovely day with us and expounding on Jenny’s virtues. She is a marvel.
It brought a smile to me to read this post and then all the comments and discover even more Jennys! I’m glad you named your only daughter, Jenny, Michele. God certainly gave us Jennys to line our days with comfort and to tenderly fill it with hope and love. None of my girls are named Jenny but my Godmother goes by that name and there isn’t a stronger and more loving and more prayerful a person in my life. Not having known the true love of a mother, great is the God who gave me such a wonderful Jenny for a friend and a mother.
Aww. This is lovely tribute to your daughter! We got a lot of snow last night and you’ve made me look at it with fresh eyes! I love that you shared it with a little bird friend. The food that pours out of your kitchen sounds wonderful. 🥰♥️
Dear Amy-thank you. Guess what? I bought the book “Cloud of Witness”! What a treasure. You inspired me over the years with your posts. Enjoy your winter and be safe and well. I think of you and your darlings so often.
Oh how wonderful! I’m so glad I get to share the Cloud with you. ♥️ And thank you for thinking of me! 😭How kind! I’m holding onto the little bits of beauty that I can as winter is trying for me! 🥰🥶♥️
My apologies for absence. You know how flighty we are!
Shall I comment on every moment in this post that stitched its way into my heart?
The trip down memory lane to the beautiful red dawn that welcomed my Kerry to the world, or the supreme joy and fulfillment that is watching my Miranda be a fine mother to my grandchildren?
The having of two names prepared awaiting the discovery of baby’s gender?
The marvel and magic of a simple snowfall? I have lived snowy winters all of my 62 years, and still thrill to the sight of flakes falling, as I did just yesterday.
There is a certain joy in having raised children in snow country. The snow days from school. The snowmen and snow forts and snowball fights. Ice fishing and snowmobiling. That childhood experience so well-portrayed in the movie A Christmas Story, as mother bundles you up so tightly against the cold that you are practically immobilized.
Lastly, and far from the least, those cherished hours “snowed in”.
In one of life’s grandest circles, we have come to an age where we are free to return to the thrill of a snow day with childish wonder, and to drink in every nuance and moment with the mature hearts of poets and grandparents.
you always move me with your words. We are as kindred as can be. I hoped you were having a beautiful winter. I always wanted to live where it snowed some in winter at least. It does not surprise me a bit that you are still in awe of a snowfall. There is so much wonder around us-oh how tragic to miss any of it. I still daydream at school every chance I get. I think of fields and woodlands and other quiet, holy places. . . and the peace of wild things. So glad as always to hear from you. x Michele
Michelle, I’ve missed reading your posts. What a beautiful tribute to Jenny, snow, and the precious visitor. May your coffee stay as warm as your heart. Stay safe and blessed! ❤️☕️🙏🏻
rabbitpatchdiarycom 
First, a beautiful tribute to your daughter and a very happy birthday to her. Second, as a Mainer, I am not fazed by snow or cold. But ice or freezing rain? Quite another matter. I hate those things with a passion. A long way of saying I am with you all the way. Hope your grandchildren get a light and lovely snow and that the darned ice stays away.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Laurie-it is fine to laugh at how ridiculous I am over snow! I read your chilling posts. I have experienced those temps but only for a day or so in my 62 years! I bet your cozy cottage was a postcard! You Mainers are stalwart. How do cars start? and I guess you all have cleared roads? Do your pipes burst-all that is troublesome herer. We are in single digits with wind. Stay warm! love Michele-and thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
As Mainers, we are used to snow and cold weather. 😉 Unless a battery is going, our cars usually start without any trouble. Yes, towns and cities clear the roads, and they do a great job. As a rule our pipes don’t burst. Most Mainers have cellars, where the pipes stay warm.
LikeLike
Such a lovely post to read…we have snow in Virginia as well. I too, have an only daughter named, ‘Jenny’, and she is the mother to two little girls. I have three boys, and we came up with names for them quite quickly. i did have a long list of girl’s names picked out, but “Jenny” rose to the top! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
What sweet coincidences we share! I am in good company with you! I bet we share other things too. Thank you Linda-I always enjoy hearing from you. x Michele
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love to read your posts…so glad I found you in the blogging world! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Me too! Thank you dear Linda
LikeLiked by 1 person
Do be careful…my intl says a big snow/ice over your way. Here its just cold…this old hoouse is always cold in winter but seems more so this year. Must be just that I’m a year older ???surely not. Soon Spring will be peeking out and will be a welcome sight.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I just can not imagine having a warm house. We have a natural gas stove. The thing is huge but heat is not uniform. I can’t afford to run it much either! I stay behind these days, but I always smile when I see your name. x Michele
LikeLiked by 1 person
I understand. My little bit of heat is electric space heater becaus I can’t aford to run the propane ..I would rather hac=ve it for cooking. this is nothing new. I have lived this way most of my adult life…it just a little harder the older I get.. Stay healthy..that is what really maters.
LikeLiked by 1 person
What a delicious post full of love and beauty.Thank you so much!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Once again, thank you for sharing, we received about 3 1/2″, snow much fun.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Sounds like you are well prepared. Hope the ice stays away, enjoy your snowbound weekend, Michele.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another heart warming post, Michelle. My older daughter also is Jenny, and the bond we share is lovely. Our worlds are far apart. Today the temperature forecast is 39 degrees Celsius after five consecutive days over 40. I have never seen snow close up. Enjoy your snowy time.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I have seen it a few times and I love it!! The world is gilded and silent. There is a clean scent to the air. Thank you friend-Michele
LikeLike
You have outdone yourself with this exceptionally lovely post. I’m thrilled that you pay attention to snow as I do. I’m thrilled that you found a new bird, too. Thank you for sharing this lovely day with us and expounding on Jenny’s virtues. She is a marvel.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I do tend to brag on my children-they just make it so easy. Haha! Thank you sweet Anne for your dear comment. I tucked it in my heart.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It brought a smile to me to read this post and then all the comments and discover even more Jennys! I’m glad you named your only daughter, Jenny, Michele. God certainly gave us Jennys to line our days with comfort and to tenderly fill it with hope and love. None of my girls are named Jenny but my Godmother goes by that name and there isn’t a stronger and more loving and more prayerful a person in my life. Not having known the true love of a mother, great is the God who gave me such a wonderful Jenny for a friend and a mother.
LikeLiked by 2 people
This is why I loved you right off-such tender and pure words. You never fail to inspire me and fill me with joy. God bless you and your Jenny.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Aww. This is lovely tribute to your daughter! We got a lot of snow last night and you’ve made me look at it with fresh eyes! I love that you shared it with a little bird friend. The food that pours out of your kitchen sounds wonderful. 🥰♥️
LikeLiked by 1 person
Dear Amy-thank you. Guess what? I bought the book “Cloud of Witness”! What a treasure. You inspired me over the years with your posts. Enjoy your winter and be safe and well. I think of you and your darlings so often.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh how wonderful! I’m so glad I get to share the Cloud with you. ♥️ And thank you for thinking of me! 😭How kind! I’m holding onto the little bits of beauty that I can as winter is trying for me! 🥰🥶♥️
LikeLike
Hello Rabbit:
My apologies for absence. You know how flighty we are!
Shall I comment on every moment in this post that stitched its way into my heart?
The trip down memory lane to the beautiful red dawn that welcomed my Kerry to the world, or the supreme joy and fulfillment that is watching my Miranda be a fine mother to my grandchildren?
The having of two names prepared awaiting the discovery of baby’s gender?
The marvel and magic of a simple snowfall? I have lived snowy winters all of my 62 years, and still thrill to the sight of flakes falling, as I did just yesterday.
There is a certain joy in having raised children in snow country. The snow days from school. The snowmen and snow forts and snowball fights. Ice fishing and snowmobiling. That childhood experience so well-portrayed in the movie A Christmas Story, as mother bundles you up so tightly against the cold that you are practically immobilized.
Lastly, and far from the least, those cherished hours “snowed in”.
In one of life’s grandest circles, we have come to an age where we are free to return to the thrill of a snow day with childish wonder, and to drink in every nuance and moment with the mature hearts of poets and grandparents.
Love,
Scott
LikeLiked by 1 person
you always move me with your words. We are as kindred as can be. I hoped you were having a beautiful winter. I always wanted to live where it snowed some in winter at least. It does not surprise me a bit that you are still in awe of a snowfall. There is so much wonder around us-oh how tragic to miss any of it. I still daydream at school every chance I get. I think of fields and woodlands and other quiet, holy places. . . and the peace of wild things. So glad as always to hear from you. x Michele
LikeLiked by 1 person
Michelle, I’ve missed reading your posts. What a beautiful tribute to Jenny, snow, and the precious visitor. May your coffee stay as warm as your heart. Stay safe and blessed! ❤️☕️🙏🏻
LikeLike