The first snowfall of the season

is a wet and messy affair, shortlived,

of little consequence,

and interrupted quickly by the sun.

There is little evidence to suggest a repeat performance.

And yet, for those few moments, we are like children again,

gawking at windows, amazed it is this cold,

anxious and afraid for the winter we know is coming.

We have had no warning,

and we are not dressed warmly enough for this.