This is the fifth blog post in a month-long initiative called “31 Things in December.” Check out the list and start blogging!

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Of the suggestions posted for “31 Things in December,” the snow question was perfect for today. I woke up to a winter wonderland outside as lake-effect snow bands made their way through the Pittsburgh area.

As the snowflakes fall on this blog post (provided you’re reading it in December), it’s no secret I am pro-snow.

There’s nothing more beautiful than watching, playing in, driving in and being around snow.

Snow can make the darkest day of winter bright and exciting.

I lived in Erie for several years and never tired of the snow the region received from October (literally) through early May.

Many folks fear snow because it disrupts their routine. It’s true that snow means you have to think a little more about planning your day — from cleaning off the car to driving carefully (which could mean slower than 40 mph over the speed limit).

I’ve never understood the anti-snow sentiment, except for those too selfish to appreciate western Pennsylvania’s four beautiful seasons.

Snow brightens Christmas light displays and can provide for hours of entertainment for kids (and kids at heart).

As a kid, I enjoyed sled riding down the hill in our back yard. Sometimes, if we had enough energy behind us, we were able to mimic Kennywood’s Jack Rabbit with a double dip. And after a long day outside sled riding and building snowmen, we’d come in and warm up with a shower and hot chocolate.

Then there was the “Blizzard of ’93.” My brother and I dug a tunnel from the driveway to near the front door!

Mother Nature reminds us that we don’t control anything, so rather than hate the snow, embrace it and enjoy its beauty.