Life is a snowflake

a free-falling star

a fragile reminder

of all that we are.

Born of a raindrop

laced by the breeze

spinning through space

dancing through trees.

A diamond of light

a gem in the sun

a journey of hope

a new life begun.

      ~ Charles Ghigna, American poet

Snow, snowflakes, ice and Christmas often fall together, making for the Courier and Ives image we hold. No wintery conditions are mentioned in the Bible’s Christmas story; however, snow does fall at the higher elevations not far from Bethlehem. During his travels, Jesus no doubt walked through the snow. As for his birth, most theologians have it placed during the spring lambing season, when the animals would be free to roam. Luke 2:8 – “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.”

The “snow” and Christmas connection started during the Victorian Era in mid-19th century Europe. Britain was in a mini ice age from about 1550 to 1850. During this time, in London, a winter fair was often held on the frozen River Thames. Charles Dickens’ 1843 “A Christmas Carol” furthered the wintery, if not bleak, weather conditions associated with Christmastime. We can dream of Winter Wonderlands, sleigh bells, snowmen and a “white Christmas!”

Christmas Day Weather Forecast: Rain showers and colder and windy conditions across the Crescenta Valley. Snow level at 5,000 feet. (Mt. Lukens is 5,075 feet!)

Merry Christmas!

Sue Kilpatrick is a Crescenta Valley resident and  Official Skywarn Spotter for the  National Weather Service. Reach her at  suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.