Snow, Snow, and Snow

Yesterday, my daughter and son and I visited my parents in vain.

My Dad and Mam live 100 km north of my house, and it takes about one and half an hour by train. Weather reports indicated that it would snow heavily in the afternoon, but I had no worries because it was clear and fine without any clouds in the sky in my area.

On the way, I noticed that landscapes I saw through the window of the train were getting whiter. However, I had not understood our desperate situations until we got off the train and walked out the station. It was like a snow storm outdoors.

Sooner or later, I found ourselves isolated at the station. My Dad could not come to pick us up due to the hazardous road conditions. It seemed like that no taxi was available. It went without saying that public transportation, such as buses or bicycles, was out of service. My parent's house was not close enough to get there on foot. We had no other choice but to give up meeting my parents. The point was we needed to get back to my house by train as soon as possible, given the risk that trains would stop. It was lucky that trains were still working despite the terrible winter storm.

Take a close look at the right picture. Can you imagine? You have to shovel lots of snow to get on the train. This is not a platform that has no roof above. Strong winds made it possible to accumulate snow everywhere. It was lucky of us to get back home without any trouble, although it took more time than usual.

When we arrived at the station in our area, we were surprised to see beautiful stars shining in the sky, without any sign of snow.

Fantastic Title

I am supposed to be given lots of gifts around the end of a year because this period includes my birthday, Christmas, and New Year's Day in a row. The reality is not always what I am expecting, though.

On New Year's Eve, I bought a book on impulse. While hanging out in the mall with my kids, I ran into this book. All of a sudden, its unique cover attracted me. I remembered the proverb, "Don't judge the book by its cover." However, I could not resist temptation.

The price of $30 did not discourage me from purchasing it although it was higher than I though it would be. Later, I was also impressed to know that each page was as impressive as the front cover.

Given my interests in outer space as well as deep sea, it is no wonder that this book satisfied me. I bet I have good knowledge about universe, but I have to confess that I have learned a lot from it. I am sure, this book differs somewhat from scientific or academic ones.

Anyway, how fantastic the title "HOW TO BUILD A UNIVERSE" sounds! It is not the cover that counts, but it is true that it tells you a lot.