Tom wakes to soft light. The day is small and pale. The window has white on the glass. Tom touches it. His nose feels cool.
He pulls on a warm hat. He puts on soft mittens. His coat is big and safe. He walks with his mom to the park. The air is crisp. His breath makes small clouds. The sun is low in the sky. The day goes fast.
At the park, the grass is sleeping under thin snow. Tiny piles hide under the slide. Tom taps the snow with his boot. It makes a quiet sound. He laughs. A little bird hops on a branch. It looks at Tom. Tom says, "Hello, bird." The bird flaps and flies away.
Tom builds a small ball of snow. He pats it with his mitten. It is cool and soft. He makes a tiny snow friend with one round head. Tom gives the snow friend a scarf. He uses a red ribbon from his pocket.
His dad brings a warm cup with milk. Tom holds it with two hands. The milk is warm and sweet. His cheeks are warm now. He sits on a bench with his parents. The sun goes down. The sky turns pink and blue. The shadows grow long. Tom feels calm.
At home, the lights are soft. The house smells like soup. Mom stirs the pot. Tom helps to set the small bowl. He pours bread in a plate. He feels proud. Dinner is quiet and cozy.
After a bath, Tom wears a soft pajama. He climbs into his small bed. The night is near. The house hums with quiet. His stuffed bear is by his side. Mom reads a short book. Her voice is low and warm. Tom listens to the words. His eyes grow heavy.
Before sleep, Tom looks out the window. The stars are like tiny dots. The moon is round and pale. Tom feels safe. He thinks of the cold day and the warm home. He feels big and small at the same time. He learns that winter can be soft and kind.
Moral: Winter is cold outside and warm inside when we share care and small brave steps.
