How to Make a Snow Angel

Winter has come early to Morton Grove. We have retrieved the snow-pants, shovels and space heaters a few weeks before we usually do.

So with the cold weather upon us, Hanuka behind us and Kwanzaa, Christmas and the New Year quickly approaching, we need a break!  

It is time for some good old fashioned snowmen and snow angels. This may seem like an activity only for the young, but I assure you it is also for the young at heart.

The first step is to bundle up, as the better prepared you are, the more enjoyable it will be.

Let's start with the snowman.

The current weather is tricky because the best snow for this is only available around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. But as soon as it heats up enough, turn off the computer, grab those snow-pants and head outside.

Once we are out there, rolling the snowman is fun for even the littlest helper.

Last year I was given a snowman kit, including plastic eyes, orange nose, pipe and a red felt scarf. I tried it this year with my son.

We were proud of ourselves, it looked like one of those perfect snowmen you see on a greeting card.

But the character wasn't there. I prefer getting a carrot for the nose, and leaving it for some happy little squirrel to find. Scrounging around the yard to find sticks, and other natural items for the details is always fun.

We also like to put Dad's scarf on and wait for him to walk home from the train to see what we've done. You can use just about anything to create your snowman, snow-woman and snow-kids. This is also a unique lawn decoration and requires not a single watt of electricity.

Once you are done with your snowman or snow family, it is time to make your snow angel. This is preferably done in an untouched part of your yard, or perhaps ask your neighbor who did not use all their fresh snow for permission to borrow the blank canvas. 

Take as big a step as possible, turn around and plop backwards into the snow. Did I mention you should be face up?

Next step, if you don't remember, is to basically do a lying-down jumping jack. Pushing your head back into the snow also helps to create the look of an angel.

The last step is to take a moment, look up at the sky, giggle and breathe in the cold air. When you are ready for hot cocoa, carefully stand up, and jump out of your angel.

Remember to take a photo.

Hey, send it into Patch and let us see how your snow people and snow angels turned out!

Happy holidays to all!