I’m riding in the backseat of a car, writing another story, when I look out the window at the passing landscape and I am amazed at the beauty of South Dakota.
The prairie is snow-covered and wind-swept. The snow glistens like glitter-speckled glass. The wind has made it so smooth that the sun reflects effortless from it.
Parts of the snow is not deep enough to cover the sagebrush, and it pokes out from its white cover. It cases snow to drift slightly behind it, making it appear rough and bubbly. Where the snow is deeper, it covers all, making a smooth white blanket that continues on until the distant end.
I see hay bales left by the ranchers. They are buffeted by the snow and wind. They are iced on one side with the white snow, like they were dipped in frosting. The cattle they are left to feed are also frosted with the snow and ice as they meander along the countryside looking for feed.
Soon enough, the plains give way to the Badlands and ultimately to the Black Hills on the western most side of the state. These natural landscapes only increase the beauty of South Dakota.
I have seen all of these areas many times during my lifetime. I have experienced them in all weather and at all times of day and night. They still amaze me and take my breath away each new time that I look upon them. I especially love the winter season. The snow makes everything so clean and pretty. It shimmer in the moonlight. The cold makes you long for a warm fire and hot cocoa. It reminds us of winter wonderlands and harkens memories that we may never have really had, but long for.
Photo credit: https://pbs.twimg.com/media/C026hkzUkAEoBXB.jpg
Average Fadre 
