The first measurable snow finally arrived this week here central Pennsylvania. While I've enjoyed the unseasonable warmth, the snow and cold reminded me that I've missed them, too. One of the things that I do appreciate about a little snow is the story it tells every morning. In the warmer weather, I only know what critters have visited if I see them. But with a little snow, I realize what a busy place this is, even when I'm away, or sleeping! The neigbor's cat strolled across the patio. A rabbit ran across the flower bed. A mouse visited the flower pot. Bruce's dogs chased a squirrel. Turkeys walked across the yard, and some small birds perched on the fence rail.

Inside, too, the cold weather seems to have finally settled the ladybugs. I've been sweeping them up daily since last fall, but with this week's chill, there are fewer. I won't miss them.

Weatherman says will have more snow today and tonight. Can't wait to see what tomorrow's stories will be.