The snow came during the night, eight inches in our previously snow-free winter. In cities such as my own, where snow falls infrequently, things temporarily shut down because we don't have adequate snow-removal equipment. But then after two or three days, we're usually snow-free again.

When the snow does fall, backup plans are implemented throughout the region. We assess the severity and impact of the storm, and then we make necessary adjustments. Do you have electricity? Can you get out of your garage? Are people depending on you to be somewhere? Are your immediate family, school family, and extended family all okay? Does anyone need help?

After the eight inches of overnight snow had fallen, and the initial triage and backup plans had been enacted, we all took some time to enjoy the moment—a walk in the snow, a cup of hot chocolate, thankful thoughts for being warm and the luxury of staying home.

Learning the importance of backup plans and how to create them happens in Daily 5. We teach children on the first days of school to be ready with their Daily 5 choice. And if their first choice—such as Listen to Reading—is full, they should be ready with their second choice. When choosing where to sit, they should have a backup plan in case someone is already in that spot. When Reading to Someone, it's good to be ready with several options of people with whom to read.

Having a backup plan can turn any negative situation into an opportunity that otherwise might have been missed.