You know those things,
those things that everybody
just loves about winter?

And by that,
I don’t just mean the
shiny shimmery packages
wrapped up with the new paper from
the local gift shop.

I don’t really mean
the woolen stockings,
hung up in their familiar spot
under the fireplace,
bursting with chocolates
and toys
and a slightly bruised tangerine.

I mean the smell,
when you walk into the house.
that sweet smell of pine
and homey decor.
that perfect blend of attic and tree.

I’m talking about the
long cozy car trips
taken for no specific reason
other than to drive through the deep snow and
to take photographs of the holiday lights.

I mean that irresistibly satisfying
“CRUNCH!”
that occurs whenever you step on
the ultimate, fresh clump of snow
on the walk home from school.

Those are the things,
you know,
those things that everybody
just loves about winter.