Snow Experience

 

When I was in the Philippines, I was curious about how “snow” looked or feel like. I always imagined snow as something like frozen rain. Those who had already experienced snow described it as similar to the frost you would see inside the freezer. Snow for those living in the Philippines is often in awe whenever they see photos of relatives and friends playing in the snow. For many, a snowfall experience is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

My first experience in the snow happened on November 16, 2022, in Toronto, Canada. I was at school at that time and I can see from the window that snow is falling. “It is snowing”, my professor remarked. I and my classmates who are not from Canada became excited. We wanted to get out of the room to feel the snow. The snow falling from the sky seems like small pieces of white cotton. Others can be described as feathers floating from the air.

During a break from class, I went out to feel the snow. The snow felt like small pieces of ice. The moment the snow reached the palm of my hand, I knew I have experienced something new in my life. This simple experience of being in a snowfall is a dream for many who live in tropical countries. Many consider it a privilege to experience snow.

Snow is beautiful when it begins to coverthe landscape. Areas covered with snow appear to have been clothed with cotton. The snow gives a dramatic effect on the landscape. With snow, the whole neighborhood transforms into an icy wonderland.

But after the initial experience with snow, everything comes back to reality. Somehow everything returns to normal. The excitement once it is gone, snow becomes something that has to be dealt with. Snow has to be shoveled to prevent accidents. Footpaths, walkways, and other areas where people go have to be shoveled and cleared of snow. Snow, if left unshoveled, turns into ice and becomes very slippery.

Snow can also be an inconvenience. When you are working and you need to travel to the office every day, snow can be a hassle. During a snowfall, you need to wear snowshoes, jackets, and other winter clothing that are heavy. Snowshoes and jackets are usually expensive during the winter, especially those considered high-end brands. Winter gear is a must! It is a good idea to invest in winter clothes. Quality over quantity is the best way to go when choosing winter clothes.

There are different brands of winter clothes. Take time to choose what is best for you. It is better to spend a little more to get the most comfortable winter clothes. However, it does not necessarily mean that the more expensive brands are always better. You must choose winter clothes that fit you. Snowshoes and snow boots have to fit perfectly to protect your feet from the snow. Choose snowshoes that are well-designed to prevent you from slipping. Your winter clothes should be comfortable and at the same time protect you from the very cold weather. You do not need to experience frostbite or slipping in the snow for you to know the importance of proper winter clothing.

Again, for those who live in tropical countries being able to experience snow is a privilege. At least once in a lifetime, holding a snowflake for the very first time in the palm of your hand is something magical. There is that kind of feeling of being able to experience something new in your life. But, the euphoria soon passes after the realization that being in a country where snow is a common occurrence also has its inconvenience. It is more challenging to live in a country that snows.

Even though there is no snow in the Philippines, there are places where you can experience cool weather. In Tagaytay or Baguio City, you can enjoy the cold air usually in the early morning or late evening. In Tagaytay, I miss the cool crisp air. The weather in Tagaytay is cold but not that cold compared to here in Canada. The weather in Tagaytay is just right.