Snow-covered trees and clear skies. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

For most of the winter season, we live in a snow globe.

It feels magical when I see the online snow-filled photos. People are skiing with a blue sky backdrop or sipping hot chocolate after sledding on a perfectly groomed hill. The social media version of winter evolves into a Hallmark Christmas movie where we can shake our world, and our troubles float away like fake snow. The mother in me takes note when the movie’s cast and characters aren’t wearing appropriate footwear, let alone a hat and gloves. I want to dress them or, at the very least, knit those people some scarves. The reality of living with snow is more challenging.

As we all know, living with snow is not for the weak. It takes planning. It can also be very isolating. We hunker down for a storm. We buy food for the possibility of power outages. If we are fortunate, we double-check generators and snow blowers. Does anyone else ever feel the responsibility for removing each shovelful of snow? I am sometimes overwhelmed by the necessity to clear cars, paths, and driveways. I worry about anyone traveling in awful road conditions and needing to avoid roadside wildlife. (Those deer are cute until they are in the middle of a snowy road.)

Though snow cuts people off from each other, it also brings people together. Recent storm warnings may not produce the anticipated snowfall, but the weather report did bring a flurry of advice and offers of help from friends and neighbors. Most people pull together in an emergency and provide any needed assistance. I see people shoveling other people’s driveways. I watch while neighbors and families check on lonely people.

That is a different sort of magic. Even if we don’t require help, knowing we have each other’s back is a relief.

Yes, there is still the world where we play in the snow or hold out for a school snow day. Snow covers everything in such a beautiful way, making me forget any obstacles underneath it. It wipes out the responsibility of having to move it, drive in it, and dress for it. Frolicking in the snow is always a bonus. Having a community that keeps us safe is something I don’t take for granted. I hope you are all safe in all the snow conditions. Enjoy!