Recently I posted on one of my social media accounts that I was thrilled we had finally received a significant amount of snow. Unsurprised, I read numerous comments that agreed with me as well as those who accused me of being crazy (in good natured teasing). Last week I wrote about snow, using scripture as word pictures how God describes our sins when they are removed. This week, I took a look at the practical side of why it’s important for us to have snow covered ground during the winter months. From the site almanac.com this is what they have published:

• Both rain and snow contain nitrogen that plants need, but snow by its nature provides a better delivery method. Nitrogen attaches to snowflakes as the snow falls through the atmosphere. In addition, nutrients are slowly released into the soil as the snow melts. This is especially effective early in the spring when the ground is thawed, allowing nature to provide a gentle fertilizer boost to plants! 
• Snow is mostly air surrounded by a little frozen water, and despite how cold it feels to the skin, it is an excellent insulator of the soil and plant roots. 
• Snow protects against wide temperature fluctuations in the soil. Under that cozy comforter of white, the roots of perennials, bulbs, ground covers, and strawberry plants are protected from the freeze-thaw cycle that can heave tender roots right out of the ground. Without snow, milder temperatures and the sun could warm the soil surface, leading to damage from soil heaving, which can break roots and dry out plant parts.
• Snow is winter mulch
• If you didn’t get around to mulching your garden this past fall, a nice blanket of snow can serve the same purpose! Never remove snow from your yard—it’s Mother Nature at work. Snow cover is valuable winter protection for your expensive trees and shrubs.

Once again, science and the divine meet in agreement with these words from the prophet Isaiah. “The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry.” (Isaiah 55: 10)

In addition, how many of us can deny we weren’t excited for a “snow day” when we were attending school? And, why as adults do we still enjoy these unexpected days of rest? Personally, I’ve asked myself that very question–”Sue, why do you “love” being snowed in?” So, I typed that question in my search engine. Lo and behold I found a wonderful quote by Helena Fitzgerald! “For adults, snow days feel like divine permission to rest” and “unexpected time off after a snowfall feels like a gift because it removes the pressure to be productive”.

As someone who considers herself to be a life-long learner, I’m very pleased to have science teach me about the practical benefits of snow along with the affirmation that a beautiful blanket of knee deep snow causes my heart to jump with joy! Yes, I also acknowledge  there will always be folks in my circle of friendship who may scoff at my unabashed love for snow. My response to them and anyone mumbling against its beauty is simply the words from Psalm 118: 24 “This is the day that the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.”

The next time you’re home under a big snow storm, rest. Take a much needed break from daily demands. Read a book. Watch a good movie. This spring and summer, when it’s planting time, thank God for the free fertilizer He poured out on your garden soil and flower beds. And, if an attitude adjustment is necessary–rejoice!  “A happy heart is good medicine, but a broken heart dries up the bones.”  (Proverbs 17: 22)