As I’m writing the article you’re reading now, I’m looking out the window at about 12 inches of snow covering everything. The front yards on my street look like big, puffy down comforters and the trees look like they’re straight out of a snow globe. It’s a winter wonderland! The National Weather Service is reporting that we’ll continue getting snow until late Tuesday evening.

This first really big winter storm of the season is exciting, but not everyone is happy to see the snow falling. Cheer up! Here are 13 good things about all this snow.

1. Water, water, water.

We live in a desert, and we really need the water that a good snow pack delivers.

2. Ski revenue equals money for Utah.

The ski industry brings in nearly $1.5 billion in revenue to the state every year. During mild winters, the resorts close early and our state misses out on those funds. Right now, surely hoards of ski tourists are booking their plane tickets to Utah.

3. School is closed!

Utah’s school districts don’t like to completely shut down during winter storms, but many send out emails like the one I got. The email instructed me to "use my best discretion when deciding whether I could safely deliver my student to school." Sounds like a Netflix and hot cocoa day!

4. We appreciate mass transit that much more.

Getting to work in a snowstorm is horrific...unless you can make your way to the TRAX station. You’ll zip right along on the tracks, bypassing the icy road conditions and grumpy drivers.

5. You can play in this stuff!

Dig through your garage and find the sleds, then head to the nearest hill.

6. Snow makes everything so beautiful.

It covers up that ugly spot in the yard where the grass died this summer. It covers up the dog poop that the kids STILL haven’t scooped up. Snow basically makes everything look better and makes every Utah neighborhood look like a winter wonderland.

7. Your teenager has something to keep him occupied all afternoon.

Send him out to shovel the drive and walkway. When he complains of boredom, you can remind him that he can stay on top of that snow accumulation by shoveling every 20 minutes.

8. You have a good excuse to call out of work.

It’s snowing a LOT. And the roads are bad. And your car is sliding all over the road. Use one of those personal leave days! Stay home, snuggle in a blanket with a loved one, a book, or both.

9. Powder.

Powder hounds don’t even need this reminder. It’s up there in the mountains, waiting for you. Go get it.

10. It’s a great day to make some comfort food...

Bring on the soup, grilled cheese and hot cocoa.

11. ...or do some baking.

Put something tasty in the oven and warm up your home while baking something decadent.

12. It’s quieter when it snows.

The falling snow and snow on the ground absorbs sound, so if you go out for a walk in your neighborhood, you’ll likely feel as though you’re the only ones out. The effect of snow on ambient noise is noticeable.

13. Snow angels.

I don’t care how old you are, making snow angels in the yard is pure, delightful fun.

What are you doing today while it's snowing?