I walked outside, pulling my jacket closer to my body as the bitter cold nipped at my nose and ears, making my eyes water. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, letting the cold fill my lungs, holding it for a minute or two before releasing it in a puff of white. I always love this time of year. There is just something so magical about winter when everyone bundles in big puffy jackets, scarves, and mittens when the trees lose their leaves and the plants are encased in frost, when the birds fly south for warmer weather and the squirrels nestle in their nests, dreaming of spring. It's all absolutely wonderful, and sometimes I wish it could last forever.

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  When I opened my eyes, I lifted my face to the night sky and felt my chest burst with warmth. Before me was a vast expanse of stars, like diamonds resting in a blanket of darkness, twinkling just for me. On nights like these, I can't help but marvel at nature and its beauty. As a sharp wind blew in the distance, I saw clouds gathering, making a slow descent. I walked inside, smiling, for I knew in the morning I would wake to the first snow of the season.