Written January 11, 2025
Hello Dear Readers,
Well, Tennessee surprised us with another snowfall yesterday, sprinkling about 4 inches of snow across the landscape. The weather’s been a bit colder than last week, so I’m guessing this snow might stick around for a while—perfect for those winter wonderland vibes, but not so much for practical living.
We’ve been calling Tennessee home for six years now, and snow here is practically an annual guest. My wife still delights in the fact that we don’t have to wield shovels against towering drifts like we did in Canada. Trust me; there’s a kind of peace in watching the snow pile up without worrying about clearing a driveway.
Now, here’s the kicker: snow and I have a bit of a love-hate relationship. While it’s picturesque, it’s also the culprit keeping me off my running schedule. I haven’t laced up my running shoes in a few days, and I’m starting to feel it—there’s something about the rhythm of running that I miss. I keep peeking out the window like a kid, hoping for a snow day (though, in this case, I’m praying for clearer paths). If conditions improve, I might just brave the cold for a quick jog. Fingers crossed!
As for errands? Forget it. Grocery shopping is on hold because some stores are closed and others are not. Well, I’m not about to risk slipping on icy roads for a bag of spinach. Luckily, we’re stocked up with plenty of staples: rice, chickpeas, beans, and vacuum-sealed meats. My wife, always the planner, portioned the meats perfectly to fit my kidney-friendly diet. While fresh veggies would be lovely, we’re not about to complain—this little snowy hiccup is our chance to make a dent in the pantry. How often do we prioritize eating those “almost expired but still good” preserved goods?
So, here we are—snowed in, slightly inconvenienced, but cozy and well-fed. Sometimes, life nudges you to slow down, embrace what you’ve got, and maybe get a bit creative with meal planning. If the snow clears up, great. If not, it’s just another day to enjoy the stillness of winter from the comfort of home.