Sculpting in snow

This is what
we've been waiting for
all winter -
six inches
of good packing snow,
cold and moist
in our gloves,
our ball growing
larger and larger
to serve as base
for a sparkling sculpture.
We might construct
a dog on its haunches
begging for food,
a penguin with a fish
in its mouth,
or Lincoln in a tall hat.
Or maybe
you and me
in buttoned coats
holding hands.