Born and raised in South Florida, the closest I came to “winter” was wearing a hoodie while carrying around a blanket in high school because 50 degrees was way too cold to let any part of my body touch the frigid air. Yes, I’ve seen snow once or twice, but never for longer than a day or two; I guess you could say I was in for a treat when I decided to move to Missouri. Winter was an exciting time, as I had no idea what to expect. These are a few of my most common thoughts (in order) during my first REAL winter:

1. CAN’T. WAIT. FOR. SNOW. Finally, I get to see snow all the time and it’ll never get old. Bring on the cold!

2. How many times can the forecast predict snow and be wrong? Too many. I lost a lot of trust in the Missouri meteorologists, constantly getting my hopes up for a snow day but being stuck with nothing but a cloudy cold day.

3. FINALLY. Snow! The day I had been waiting for finally came! I was extremely unprepared, though. My outfit of choice was a dress and sandals for brunch and that was NOT my best idea. No matter what the attire, I was so excited!

4. Wait…Not everyone loves snow or winter this much? It was quite the disappointment when I shared with everyone I talked to how excited I was about the season and they replied with groans and sarcastic “yay” comments. Apparently people who experience winter every year do not love it as much as I do, and no one wants to build a snowman.

5. Oh wow, driving is a lot harder than I thought. Black ice? No thanks! My defensive Florida driving style needed to be slightly adjusted to fit icy conditions.

6. I hate wind. Wind has a way of making a 10-minute walk to class seem like it's hours long. Who knew my entire face could freeze like that?

7. How many layers are too many? Is it possible to wear my whole closet? I can fit about three more shirts under this big jacket if necessary.

8. Do I really have to go outside? I still love winter (I think), but simple tasks like walking to class or my car became a struggle. Especially with no snow on the ground to kick around while I walked.

9. OK, I’m over it. Give me warmth! I loved my first winter, but I spent the last month hoping for a little heat and sunlight

10. Finally, warmth! I made it through my first winter and found myself loving the 50 and 60 degree weather that was once too cold for me. However, after my first day back in 90 degrees and high humidity, I’ll be ready for another winter in no time. (Probably thinking all of these things again.)