The Snowman

As I entered into this Christmas season I contemplated Christmases past in relation to what this season was going to be like. And as I thought I began to think about family traditions that happen in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Traditions like going to the Gingerbread Jubilee, or going out the boondocks to get a tree. Even the simple traditions of what music was playing in the background. And as I thought and as the season has gone on I realized that maybe, just maybe I should come up with a few traditions of my own for the weeks prior to Christmas. But then finals hit. And setting in motion any kind of Christmas traditions that didn't revolve around school didn't seem possible. I had to remind myself that the reason I am here is for school, and that I am indeed loving every minute of it (although if anyone has any tips on how to get more sleep during finals will always be a hero in my book.)

Finals are not over yet, but I have, I think, managed to set in motion at least one tradition. A tradition that is a throw back to my childhood. When my brothers and I would go to our grandparents house they had this 30 minute VHS that was about this little boy who built a snowman and they went on an amazing adventure to the North Pole. While there they meet Santa Clause and have a party with all the other snowmen. Upon returning home the boy goes to bed and when he wakes up his Snowman has melted. This last scene has always left me with a haunting feeling. The feeling that life changes even if we're not ready for that change. Change is good even though there are moments when it is hard for us to see the good. But what we will always have are the memories of times past and the memories that we are making now. Just before the Snowman takes the boy to the North Pole the music becomes intensely beautiful, giving you the feeling that something wonderful is about to happen. The Snowman walks out of the shed where he was just sitting in the deep freezer as though it where a hot tub, and proceeds to leave. The boy thinking that he is about to lose his friend looks forlorn, but then the boy decides to join him on his journey. And it's within that moment the boy embarks on an adventure of a lifetime!

 This short movie is told entirely without words, just like the book it's based off of. The artwork is beautiful and the soundtrack is amazing. While doing some Christmas shopping the other day I found the most beautiful copy of the book. I had never seen the book before in my life but felt like I was holding a very close friend in my hands. Every time I'm around snow I wish I could make a snowman that looked just like this snowman. He's just so friendly looking, like he was meant to be a friend to every child, one who would stick with you through everything. I think that's why the ending gets me every time. That last picture of the boy looking at the melted remains of the Snowman is a reminder that nothing on this earth is forever, except for the promise that we have in Christ.

And yes I have watched the movie at least 4 times in the last few weeks and I watched it just before making my little snowman at the top of this post. :) I look forward to making the book more a part of this tradition now that I have a copy of it within my possession. Merry Christmas!!