For years I've berated my kids for coming in the house on a cold winters afternoon and immediately peeling off their drippy boots, sopping wet gloves, hats, scarves, neck warmers, jackets, snowpants and and any other paraphernalia they took with them outside. I find a trail starting at the door, tracing each individual's path into the house and towards the snack cupboard. Dutifully, every time if find such a trail, I summon them back to clean up the mess and everytime, they look at me as if cleaning up after yourself is some brand new request or stipulation of proper behaviour.

Well, I just came in from shovelling the walk and did exactly what they do, leaving a mess right in the way of everyone, blocking the back door from closing. Wanna know a secret? I've found that shedding all that itchy, hot clothing in a hurry isn't just convenient - it's insurmountably fun.