Winter...

Dear Winter,

We need to talk. We've known each other for a long time now. Being born and raised in the Frozen Tundra, you've practically ruled my life. And let's face it, I've got Scandinavian blood so I should love you. But you've become a little extreme and possessive over the years...cutting into Fall and Spring's precious time in my life.

Don't get me wrong, I love some of what you bring. I love the snow. I love those occasional late-October snowfalls. I even love the occasional early-May ones. And I love all the snowfalls in between. I love curling up with blankets when you're around. I also love all the great hot drinks that are best when you're here. And I love Christmas. Christmas without your snow is not the same. I should know-you rarely ever give snow here. Just icy cold winds and dirt.

But I wish you would be better friends with Summer. Why, you ask? Because I don't like your cold. I'm tired of thawing out my hot water pipes every stinkin' week. And the frozen toilet tank yesterday? Not funny. I would like you to trade in your cold and share Summer's warmth instead. Keep the snow, of course, but let's have some toasty temps to go with those pretty snowfalls, ok?

If you can't handle that, then we can't be friends anymore. You'll have to leave. Go be friends with Santa and the north pole instead. And feel free to take the Gobi Desert with you. Thanks.