Growing up in snowy places like Utah and Minnesota, I can only recall a few snow days as a child. Now living in Western Oregon, it’s amusing (and a bit frustrating) to see how a light dusting can bring everything to a halt. I understand that the area isn’t equipped for snow, but when schools are closed for four consecutive days, it feels like the universe is collapsing! Each snow day triggers a familiar emotional rollercoaster that mirrors the five stages of grief outlined by Kübler-Ross. Let’s dive into my experience.
(Note: If you’re among those parents who thrive on the thrill of unexpected snow days, this article might not resonate with you. Please refrain from spoiling our venting session in the comments!)
1. Denial
The moment I receive that email announcing school closures, my first reaction is disbelief. I cling to the hope that it’s a mistake, wishing I could just drop the kids off like any other day. I check multiple sources, listen to the radio, and pray—until the stark reality hits that my plans have gone completely out the window.
2. Anger
Once I break the news to my kids and they erupt with joy, I feel a tight knot in my chest. The reality of a canceled school day sinks in, and suddenly, I have to navigate the day with all the kids. If I still have to work, I find myself calling in sick or attempting to bring them along, which only stretches my workday. I try to keep my cool, but I’m met with the noise of kids while battling deadlines. Thoughts racing through my mind include: “Why does this happen to me?” and “I need to build an igloo in the backyard!”
3. Bargaining
In this phase, I frantically search for ways to regain some semblance of control. I hand over tablets, suggest movie marathons, and promise mac and cheese. All of these little negotiations are desperate attempts to carve out a few moments for work or chores, like laundry day, so I don’t drown in dirty clothes.
4. Depression
When I finally accept that work is impossible and I’m merely shouting, “Shut the door! You’re letting the heat out!” while soaking up melted snow from the entryway, I hit my low. I feel deflated, overwhelmed, and thoughts like, “What’s the point?” flood my mind. I reached this stage by noon on the last snow day, but I know some parents can endure a bit longer.
5. Acceptance
At last, I acknowledge that the day is a wash. The kids are buzzing with energy, and I decide to join in. I head outside to build a snowman, telling myself, “It’s going to be alright. I can’t fight it, so I might as well enjoy the moment.”
While not every family will traverse all these stages during a snow day, many will recognize bits and pieces of this journey. By the end of the day—or several in a row—everyone is more than ready for a little break. After putting the kids to bed, I often find myself looking skyward, hoping for sunshine the next day.
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In summary, snow days can be a whirlwind of emotions for parents. Each stage—from denial to acceptance—captures the challenge of suddenly having kids at home. Embracing the chaos can lead to unexpected memories, even if it means a bit of grief along the way.