Winter brings intricate crystals tumbling quietly in a showery white veil toward the ground, speckling my hair.

A vivid, glistening tree stands like an imposing, beautiful green tower in the den that is situated in front of the picture window for neighbors to enjoy. The fresh minty scent of the ornate tree wafts through the air.

A cozy fire in the hearth, embraces me in its warmth and light.

Childhood memories encapsulate me like a caterpillar in its cocoon.

Bursting with excitement, I hold onto my sled and glide speedily down powdery hills. The whoosh of the crisp, tingly winter air brushes my face, and I feel a sense of complete freedom.

Sitting at the kitchen table, I sip a mug of hot, steamy chocolate, with tiny marshmallows floating on top, sometimes burning the roof of my mouth.

Outside, thin naked trees are lined up like matchsticks. Their bony branches hold empty nests, disheveled and lonely. The feathered fowls have flown south.

Jagged walls of icicles hang from the eaves, barring my view through the window, a reminder of the bitter cold tidings of the elongated winter.

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