![December in Maine](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3057/3102795234_747cd5fe57.jpg)
So last night we had a big ice storm: power lines are down, traffic lights are out and the roads are covered in ice and sleet - so I'm taking one of my four snow days today.
![Outline of Ice](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3091/3101961019_a93164be1e.jpg)
For those of you not from places that get lots of snow and ice, you may wonder how an ice storm differs from a snow storm. Well, the ice storm is generally thought to be more dangerous because everything gets covered and encased in a thick coating of ice. This causes problems for trees and powerlines especially, because the added weight often snaps branches, etc. That said, it's also rather pretty.
![Frozen Winterberries](http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3126/3101960935_6eae773f84.jpg)
Also, I was tagged a little over a week ago by Bitter Betty to list 6 things I'm inspired by right now, so here's goes:
- My newest blog find - sew I do. She makes the cutest clothing for herself, her adorable son, and husband. It makes me glad that I saw some unexpected sewing time available today!
- The song "Charlie Darwin" by the Low Anthem - it was on the latest Paste sampler cd and I keep playing it over and over again.
- Portland's Buy Local movement/business alliance. I'm aiming to make all my Christmas gifts be handmade or locally purchased and since we have so many great shops here, it's not hard to do! Seriously- if you're ever in the area and want some suggestions - just ask!
- The smell of pine - we already have our wreath and we're getting the tree tomorrow - hopefully it's still in one piece!
- Pushing Daisies - this show has lots of pie, adorable clothing, and a P.I. who stress knits - I am so sad this show is canceled, but at least we have TV on DVD.
- Handknitted sweaters and socks- I've been wearing the ones I have and I want to make more and more!