The Snow Angel Challenge
Thoughts on belonging and ridiculously fun ways to be in community
January’s blue sky and sun streaming through our windows is deceiving. The temperature is frigid and we’re on our billionth snow day on the heels of a two week Christmas break. I can’t remember the last time we had a routine or left the house without snow boots, gloves, and jackets covering our faces. The kids are delighted for our first big storm in years, but I just want to take a break from washing dishes and feeding everyone three meals a day. While the kids are outside playing on snow piles and chipping away at the ice in our driveway, I turn on my computer and check in on Facebook to see the latest updates — the night before I saw two middle school students take part in a snow angel challenge.
The rules stated: Cole Camp t-shirt, shorts, and no shoes. Do a snow angel and challenge someone else.
The boys hyped up their video with music and I couldn’t help but smile along; their enthusiasm was contagious. Now, twelve hours later, I see video after video of snow angels. Soon a student challenges the elementary principal. She is up for the challenge and lists a handful of teachers who are next to make their snow angel.
I text my teacher friend, “Watch out, the snow angel challenge is coming for teachers now!” I start watching student after student and teacher after teacher. I comment on all the posts: “Way to go!” “I love this!” “How fun!”
The teachers don their Cole Camp gear and make a snow angel. Their words are a chorus, “Only for the kids.” I’m proud to be a part of this community, proud that my children are taught by educators who take their jobs seriously, but also know what it means to show up in spontaneous, playful ways.
I’ve been subbing at the school since last spring and have good relationships with the teachers. I’m both a part of the school, but also not a part of it. I’m not there every day and not a full-time employee. But my heart is with them when they have dress up days and spirit weeks; their energy is contagious and I’d love to take part. And watching the snow angels one-by-one, I want in.
I secretly hope that I’ll hear my name called. I love these community challenges and the sheer fun of doing something ridiculous. I love seeing people come together and feeling like you’re a part of something bigger than yourself. That you belong.
Finally, after watching video after video, I hear my name called to the challenge. “I challenge one of our wonderful subs, Kim Zeller.” A smile overtakes my face and I waste no time changing into my “In my Bluebird Era” t-shirt and yoga shorts. I hand my phone to Isaac who is happy to record (but not join me in making a snow angel). Stephen and Charlotte join me outside on a sun-filled afternoon.
It only takes me one take: “My name is Kim Knowle-Zeller and I am here for the 2025 Bluebird snow angel Challenge.”
I run to the middle of our front yard and plop on my back, my legs and arms swish back and forth. I don’t feel the cold, just the adrenaline and joy of being a member of the community — a part of this village.
What I’ve Read
We Solve Murders by Richard Osman. Another laugh out loud book from The Thursday Murday Club author. This was just the light read I needed (even though it’s about murder!)
Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell. This middle grade book (first in a series) was powerful. I loved this story of magical creatures and lands and the resilient children who are called to save them.
Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade and The Paris Library by Janet Skeslien Charles. Set during WWI and WWII, both of these books lift up the power of stories, especially when times are dark. They’ve inspired me to keep doing what I can to bring books, literacy, and a love of reading to my family and those I meet.
What I’ve Read with the Kids
Sideways Stories from Wayside School by Louis Sachar. We’re reading my copy of this book and laughing our way through the crazy students and teachers we’re meeting at Wayside School that was accidentally built sideways and without a 19th floor. It’s a delight to read aloud!
Heartwood Hotel: The Greatest Gift by Kallie George. This is the second in the Heartwood Hotel series set during the winter months. The book follows a cast of adorable creatures who make their home at the Heartwood Hotel, a place for friendship.
Books I’m Pre-Ordering (preordering books from your favorite authors is the *very* best thing you can to do support writers and their work. So today I’m sharing books written by three friends of mine!)
The Very Best Baseball Game: A Story about Disability and God’s Good Design For All of Us by
Holding on and Letting Go: A Life in Motion by
.Perfected: Trading Shame and Striving for Wholeness in Christ by Bethany Broderick
God of mystery and wisdom,
be with us this Lenten season.
Show us your grace
in the small moments of silence
the prayers offered
the kindness of a stranger
the lighting of a candle
the listening to a friend
the care of neighbors.
In all we say and do,
you are with us.
God of mystery and wisdom,
be with us this Lenten season.
Settle our hearts
revive our spirits
increase our faith
spread our love.
Thanks for being here — reading my words and sharing your words with me! Till next time, friends.
Peace,
Kim
This is so fun!! Love it.
I read this while waiting at the chiropractor. Too fun! Beautifully written!