What do you do with your ‘Snowed In’ Time?

Maybe the question should be what do you NOT do with your time? Some of it being the obvious when the weather conditions indicate icy roads sleet and snow and warnings to not drive unless you absolutely have to. Don’t go outside without a jacket and boots on. Don’t leave your thermostat too low or neglect to leave your water dripping for risk of your pipes breaking. Don’t forget to pick up salt for the walkway. Don’t spend too much time outside. Don’t forget to take your dog out for potty breaks….Most critical for me: Don’t dwell on the obvious that you are isolated unable to go anywhere at this time and that the next range of storms is on its way.

But do focus and all that you have around you right now at this time and yes I’m talking to me. I have a warm home plenty of food, friends, and family to text or call and my little Kippy to keep me entertained, laughing and busy. And enough warm happy and meaningful memories to last me through any storm. As long as I choose to focus on what I have and not what I had before or am missing during this time.

I am learning to appreciate this time when everything stops in the community around me. Last night taking Kippy out for a short potty break everything was so still, there were no cars driving just stillness I stood there thanking God for his provision in all things even the stillness.

Two years ago this week Ken had completed his 4 week post op MRI to determine if the Cancer had returned after surgery and how much time, months or even years might we have together. It revealed the cancer had grown larger than before it had been removed just four weeks earlier and he was given 3 to 6 months to live. (his life on earth ended just five weeks later) That was a very shocking, cold, unfamiliar and difficult season. But God kept us safe, warm and prepared for Ken’s final time here. I am thankful for that season even amidst the obvious time of loss and sadness.

During that short five weeks, Quality of life would continue to diminish rapidly for Ken but we were determined to enjoy every moment even in this cold winter season where at that time we were trudging through 2 feet of snow but staying home mostly. Ken watched through the frosted windows enjoying the grand girls and our daughter throwing snowballs at the window and running in the snow making snow people. Our son and family from nearby would stop by to visit and share silly stories and laughter. Our son in law took Ken out in the snow for what would be his last trek/drive to smoothie king. A few zoom calls to family and friends far away gave us time to visit with those he would not be able to spend any more time with. Even with the cold swirling around us we made new memories in this time as we prepared to say goodbye. His time on earth ended soon, but his new season of life had just begun in the presence of God.

As I gaze out my frosted windows today, into the white snow and sleet covered ground I am in awe of God’s creation and how he designed the seasons. And how each one is so very necessary for the next. Much like the seasons I am living and growing through, each one has a purpose and is granting me the time I need to grow through grief.

My first season as an adult living in this part of the country with snow and ice laden horizons was with Ken as he was slipping away from us. My second season, last year was difficult, painful in my first year without Ken, Kippy was just a few months old and loved running and falling into the snow, the grands shared their snow escapades with me, I was not falling into the isolation of snow days although at times I wanted to. This years’ season of snow is different, I am feeling more refreshed, encouraged and hopeful, even taking short walks where not a soul is seen on my path, sleet and snow covering our heads but so very blessed and thankful to able to get out and experience a moment of what this season and time is offering. Well just enough to scoot carefully back in, remove Kippy’s snow booties, my layers of clothing and warm ourselves up again.

In answer to my own question; “What do you do with your ‘Snowed In’ time”? For me I’ve invested time reading my Bible, doing studies, tackling little projects, gathering tax stuff, going through drawers, Texting or calling friends and family who are also snowed in and I have enjoyed being able to spend a few moments sharing with you. Oh I have wasted some time too, no doubt. But I am focusing on what I am doing with this time. As I encourage you to do as well.

A ‘seasoned’ widow I met last year told me to be easy on myself and remember that “it takes time” to process and grow into widowhood. Well she was right and through each season God is providing me the time I need.

And so how about you: “What do you do with your ‘Snowed In’ time”? While your snow may come in the form of heat waves, floods, fires, or in some cases your own self imposed isolation when you just need a break from the world, what do you do with your snowed in time?

I hope my writing today has encouraged you in someway, got you thinking or pondering your own seasons and time. But most of all I hope you are trusting God for where you are right now and where he is taking you as well as where he has brought you through. Thank you sharing some time with me. May you be blessed encouraged and comforted through this season wherever you are.

Pati

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens:…
Ecclesiastes 3:1 (NIV)

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