You state that you became scared of the snow coming to destroy the cabin. That fear probably made you lose "real control" and took over. Even though you knew what you wanted to do, the fear override the confidence of knowing it could be done.

Remember in the Matrix when Neo went to jump the buildings. Everyone said "you'll never make it.. what if he does?" He knew he wouldn't make it, and failed. Even though he tried.

Next time you feel that, try something relaxing and that gives you back control. What works for me is rubbing my hands together while looking at them, focusing on the heat generated. (thanks to whoever posted that, as now I seem to be preaching it a lot&#33