Ten Useful Tips for Snow Noobs, Like Me
December 15, 2009
“Sunshine is delicious, rain is refreshing, wind braces us up, snow is exhilarating; there is really no such thing as bad weather, only different kinds of good weather.†(John Ruskin)
Well, it is now officially snowing in Vermont. I believe the first day we got a foot of snow, which, in Georgia would’ve qualified as enough to shut down the entire State. The second day we got a bunch more and, after that, I stopped keeping track.
There is a LOT of snow, and the snowflakes are so huge that they don’t all fall DOWN. Some of them just float around, defying gravity, prolonging their joyful dance until they are so exhausted, they flop down on top of the others to help erase all the little differences on the surface of the world.
It is a sight to behold.
“The snow itself is lonely or, if you prefer, self-sufficient. There is no other time when the whole world seems composed of one thing and one thing only.†(Joseph Wood)
Many of you have been wondering (as I have) how I would feel about the snow, since I am a girl from the tropics. I absolutely LOVED autumn in Vermont, but who doesn’t? Stick season, to be honest, got kind of boring because it was cold and gray and, well… just plain cold. Snow season, on the other hand, isn’t just cold… it’s beautifully breathtaking. Magical, even.
I love it.
Consider however, that I stay at home, and Hunter is homeschooled. So, the only time we have to be out in it, is when we feel like playing, or having an adventure (as seen in these pictures). I’m sure that makes all the difference in the world. Jeff, on the other hand, has to go to work most days.
So, for people who are new to the snow AND actually have to be out in it, whether they want to or not, I thought I’d put together a list of ten tips I’ve learned in the past three days… some of them the hard way.
*
1. When you park, keep your windshield wipers UP.
I’m not entirely sure what happens if you don’t, but I’m guessing it has something to do with freezing them in an unusable position because of the cold and weight of the snow. Hunter and I discovered this as we walked around town and saw 90% of the parked cars had their wipers pointing straight up. The other 10% are probably tourists, or noobs.
2. Remove the snow above the driver door BEFORE you open it.
Jeff learned this lesson on his first snowy work day, when he ended up with a pile of snow in the driver’s seat. Snow has a wonderful way of making us aware of the effects of gravity… which brings us to #3.
3. Don’t stand or park directly under awnings, or close to buildings.
It is mind-boggling how MUCH snow accumulates on the roof of each house and, when it warms up, how heavy the snow that will suddenly fall can be. Not only that, but icicles! I don’t mean cute little icicles like the ones dangling on the bushes. I mean four-foot, lethal weapons threatening to let go of their second-story perch! Most tall buildings have signs that say, “Watch for falling ice and snow.” I say, “Yeah… What they said.”
4. Walking in snow is like walking in water.
Whenever I am at the beach, I like to walk as far as I can go in about a foot of water, kicking up spray as I go along. It’s fun and misty and magical, and it makes me feel like a kid. (Plus, it makes for a nicer tan, fyi.) I noticed that the same thing happens in a foot of powdery snow… it kicks up beautifully, and hangs in the wind.
The flip side of that is, like water, snow provides a bunch of resistance. So, when you are deciding how far you are going to trek through the snow, consider in your calculations that your feet will sink INTO the snow, and it is infinitely more tiring (and a better workout) than walking on a hard surface.
5. When you see a beautiful mound of fluffy snow, don’t throw yourself on top of it.
Odds are, there is probably something UNDER it. This is one Hunter discovered (with his knee,) and probably applies more to kids, who find it absolutely necessary to jump on, or kick, any mound of snow they see. Nine out of ten times, the mound is there because something solid (and painful) lurks beneath.
6. Waterproof yourself from head to toe.
The first day I went out in it, I had waterproof boots, gloves, and jacket… but my pants and hat were not waterproof. Since it was snowing, my hat was soon soaked (no longer warm) and, when I knelt or sat, my pants were soaked (no longer warm). Noobs have a tendency to forget that snow = water, and when it gets on non-waterproof articles of clothing, it will mercilessly soak you to the bone. Fortunately, Hunter was completely waterproof, because he BURIED himself in snow!
7. That horrible noise you hear at three or four in the morning, that sounds like the SWAT Team is rolling in to ambush you, is probably just the city snow plow.
Unless, of course, you are a fugitive, in which case it may BE the SWAT Team coming to get you (and I don’t have any good advice for what to do in that scenario.) As awful as it is to hear that sound, it really is pretty handy to have them out there getting the roads ready to be driven on for the morning commute. It makes the snow brown and yucky, but greatly increases the odds of you safely getting to where you are going.
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8. To make a snowman, you need the right kind of snow.
The first day, I tried to teach Hunter how to make a snowman with powdery snow. That’s like trying to make one out of flour… none too effective. By the second day, it had melted enough to stick together and pack tightly. This is precisely the kind of snow needed for making snowmen and, coincidentally, for having snowball fights. If it’s too melty, though, you might be having an ice-ball fight… which has “E.R. Visit” written all over it.
(As a side note, having wind chimes around when you are playing in the snow, creates the illusion that you are actually in Narnia, and may keep you on the lookout for magical, dancing fawns. Or, maybe that’s just me.)
9. Certain things don’t work as well in the cold and snow.
For instance, brakes. I have learned that it is best to use lower gears to slow down, instead of applying the brakes. Also, regular tires are not so great. You really should get snow tires put on sometime in the Fall. Oh, and cameras get a little finicky if the temperature drops too low. Ours won’t even turn on when it gets cold enough. So, if you are going on a snowy adventure, make sure your camera works in the cold.
10. Safety tip: A thick layer of snow can completely cover just about anything.
When Hunter and I were walking around the corn field today, we noticed that what is left of the stalks was just below the surface. If you tripped and fell on one of those, you would seriously put an eye out… or worse. Beyond that was a slight indentation in the field… which turned out to be an almost frozen creek. It was just frozen enough for snow to pile up on top of it and camouflage the potential danger below. So, before you go traipsing off in the endless fields of snow, make sure you KNOW what lies beneath.
That’s it. That is all I’ve learned in my first three days of snow.
What about YOU?
Do you have any useful tips for snow noobs, like me?
“The aging process has you firmly in its grasp if you never get the urge to throw a snowball.” (Doug Larson)
Thanks!!!
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Sounds like Sweden to me
I especially agree with the “remove the snow above the driver’s door” – that one always gets me. Weird though, because at this moment we probably only have an inch of snow and it is probably going to melt any day now.
Fluffy snow rocks. Although to be quite honest I’ve grown not so happy about the winter and the darkness in Sweden, so I’m getting out of here next month. Tips for snow noobs, hmm … I think you covered most of them
Henri´s last blog ..Why You Shouldn’t Quit Your Job, Yet
But here in Russia some cars were covered with snow almost completely this winter.. what makes “remove the snow above the driver’s door” particularly funny. You will also need to remove much of snow from the roof of your house, otherwise there will be dripping from the ceiling or something.. Fortunately, there is no such prolonged darkness here as it is in Sweden. Thanks God, at least something’s good.
Lisis,
Snow tastes good…as long as it’s pure white…(any other color, I’d steer clear of!)
YOU and your whole family look like you are adjusting quite nicely to Vermont’s winter wonderland! Have fun and stay warm!
Lance´s last blog ..Sunday Thought For The Day
Lisis,
Fun post! It is great to see how you see all these positive aspects from snow.
I actually love snow, not only because this means that the temperature is not so low, but because creates a magical environment at night, all this white snow reflecting light at night and it is beautiful to stay at night when snowing…
-Another way of enjoying snow, in a small hill create a snow ball that grows ans grows…it is a better when you grasp by yourself the concept of a snow ball…
All the best!
@ Henri: Oh, I know what you mean about the darkness. When we moved to Vermont (in the lovely, lovely Fall) my biggest fear was the cold. I thought I would absolutely just freeze in place… stop moving, like a lizard when it’s trapped in the cold. As it turns out, the DARKNESS is my main complaint. Having lived in Costa Rica, San Diego and Austin, I’m pretty used to long, sunny days. Here I feel like each day is about 3 hours long! The good news is, on the 22nd (next week!) the days will start getting longer again!
Where are you moving TO?
@ Lance: Can you believe it? A foot of snow fell and I survived! Miracle of miracles!
I know what you mean about the snow colors too, and it’s not just yellow that’s a problem. After the snow plow and a little traffic, there are mountains of all shades of brown, gray, and even black (yuck!) snow.
Speaking of yellow snow… our very first snowman got peed on during the night! How’s that for a welcome to Vermont?
@ Boris: I am definitely doing my best to try to focus on the positives here. One of them, which I forgot to mention (so thanks for bringing it up) is the temperature! Who knew? When it is snowing it is NOT as cold. Seems counter-intuitive to a snow noob, but I guess it’s because all the moisture is “tied up” in snowflakes, instead of chilling us to the bone… right? I don’t know the science behind it, but I LOVE that part.
We have yet to succeed at the snowball growing experiment. We’ve tried it a few times, but haven’t had the right combination of variables yet (snow was too powdery, mostly). But that is definitely on our list! Thanks!
@ Lisis: My girlfriend and I (and the dog of course) are moving to Spain in January. It’s going to be awesome. The warmness and sun will greet me with open, warm, melting hands. Seems like we’re doing the opposite things here, you’re moving to Vermont and I’m going to Spain. I guess the world needs balance, huh?
Henri´s last blog ..Why You Shouldn’t Quit Your Job, Yet
Brr. We are in winter here in Italy and although it’s 0 grades it’s already enough cold for me
Oscar´s last blog ..Just Do Your Best
Heh heh.
You obviously didn’t grow up in Canada. We’re BORN knowing all these things…by instinct.
Oh, you forgot the most important one.
Don’t eat it if it’s yellow!
Friar´s last blog ..Monday Night Painting
@ Henri: The world definitely seems to balance itself out! I love Spain! If I lived anywhere in Europe, I think it would be there. My grandfather was born in Madrid, and I still have a bunch of cousins there. I’m thinking you are getting the better end of this balance deal!
@ Oscar: 0 degrees (or 32 F) is sure enough cold, no matter where you are! Funny, I never picture Italy getting that cold, except up in the mountains. Hmm… seems I’m due for a trip to Europe to refresh my memory!
@ Friar: You know, I get that same sense from Vermonters… like no one ever had to tell them. The minute they were born, the doc threw them out in the snow and they just somehow managed.
I, on the other hand, was born in Honduras… probably under a banana tree, somewhere near a beach, in the sweltering near-equatorial heat. When the temps drop below 70, I start moving slower, and eventually just curl up in one spot to keep my vital organs alive! I think my neighbors are getting quite a kick out of watching me adapt. It’s like a show on the Discovery Channel, or something!
I love that you’re loving the snow! It’s nice to hear that you’re adapting, and learning your way around. Keep up the positive attitude, and the Winter that seemed so scary a few months ago will soon be just a faded memory of good times.
Jay Schryer´s last blog ..Paying It Forward
Hi Lisis,
Oh so nice to hear you are enjoying the “sights” of your first winter snow season!
Your line:
” Snow season on the other hand, isn’t just cold… it’s beautifully breathtaking. Magical, even. I love it.”
says it all! (embrace the cold and see what adventures await you)
Don’t forget to make snow angels
Lyne
Wow, you learn quick!! One thing I would add is to gently “tap” the brakes if you need to slow down and its slippery, slamming them = car in snowbank. Make sure you get some long johns for your walks or ski pants. If you think its cold now you are in for a suprise, this is a heat wave- wait till it dips below zero…..it gets so cold that it makes your eyes water and then your eyelashes freeze together…..good times.
Glad you are liking it here, it really is a great place to live.
Hey Lisis!
I haven’t had to deal with snow in a long long time:) Its too sunny in South Africa
Hopefully on my trip in europe Ill be able to stop in a snowy location for a few days, I would love to ski again
Have a great week!
Diggy – Upgradereality.com´s last blog ..How To Be (un)Productive
@ Jay: Incredible, huh? I thought I would stay pretty grouchy about the whole thing, but I’m starting to get pretty fond of the snow. The cold and the darkness still suck eggs, but… whatever. It’s a start.
@ Lyne: I am dying to make a snow angel! Hunter has already made a few, but I’m working on finding waterproof pants so I don’t get soaked when I make mine. Maybe I’ll fill the whole corn field with snow angels!
@ Charity: Where would I be without you, to remind me it can always get COLDER!
Good times, indeed! Hey, you just reminded me of my other discovery… while I’m out walking around in the cold wind, my lips taste salty. At first I didn’t know what was going on until I realized it’s the constant stream of tears (I guess my eyes are fighting off getting frozen shut!). Kind of a weird sensation, really.
@ Diggy: I know what you mean. I think I was a kid the last time I was in any considerable amount of snow (and kids don’t think about any of this stuff). It’s been eye-opening… an exercise in being mindfully aware of my surroundings. Who needs an ashram in India, when you can attain enlightenment in the corn fields of Vermont?!
Hi Lisis, this was really fun to read! Great tips, too. I think the snow is invigorating and magical as well. I especially like when a lot is falling at night and piling up… the world gets extra quiet and serene… and so pretty. And playing in it is a lot of fun!
Even the if you HAVE to go out in it, to work or to get the kids to school or elsewhere, I found that the experience of doing that makes me extra grateful about life. It slows us down… we simply can’t rush. I’m always taken back with gratitude during the work of shoveling myself out about the beauty and wonder of this earth, and mindful of how “easy” our lives have really become… especially compared to generations much before us, who had to put a lot more effort into just the basic things (getting around, having food and shelter and warmth, etc.) on a regular basis, not just during snow storms.
The other tip I would add is stocking up on the essentials before a big storm. Food, movie rentals, books, whatever it takes to stay occupied. And, to have plenty of batteries and candles (and decks of cards and other things) in case the power goes down. Oh, and some snow shovels definitely are better than others. The lighter aluminum and plastic type are great for picking up the snow and moving it, but we keep hoes and metal ones around, too, to chop the ice when the snow melts enough that we need to break it just to walk or get out of the driveway.
Thanks for this! I’m all wintry and cheerful now!
Miche´s last blog ..Is Passion Necessary for a Meaningful Life?
I wish I’d read this a year ago BEFORE we went to Colorado in April.
We got zinged by driver’s side door snow, none of my pants were waterproof, our cameras wouldn’t work in the national park unless we held them in front of our car heater every 30 seconds, and – yes – we totally didn’t know about the windshield wiper thing.
I’m showing this article to Chris, STAT!
Hayden Tompkins´s last blog ..House Sitters Gone Wild!
@ Miche: Hmmm… the plot thickens. Exactly what do you mean by:
“we keep hoes and metal ones around, too, to chop the ice when the snow melts enough that we need to break it just to walk or get out of the driveway”?
It sounds like I’m in for one helluva ride! You’re right though… it’s amazing how relatively easy we have it these days. Even living here (in this apartment), someone else plows the parking lot and shovels the snow from the walkways, etc. We’re still in the “Introduction to Winter (for dummies)” class, so we’re taking this one step at a time. Getting totally snowed in reminds me a little of The Shining… I’m not sure I’m ready for that just yet!
This morning Hunter finally succeeded at the famous “snowball roll” technique, going from a tennis ball size to a watermelon sized snowball. Pretty awesome, when you think about it… he could be sitting in a classroom for six hours, wishing he was elsewhere, OR rolling snowballs and trekking to the frozen creek with his daddy (where they are now). This kid’s got it good, I tell ‘ya!
I’m so glad you are wintry and cheerful now!!!
@ Hayden: Haha! My point exactly. Snow pros (like Friar, up there) don’t even realize how clueless snow noobs can be. They take this sort of stuff for granted, so nobody ever tells us. I figured there was probably a need for someone to point out the obvious in this case, because those who know, don’t bother; and those who don’t know… well, they’re not exactly in a position to share the tips, are they?
Living in the south Pacific, I’ve always envied you northern hemisphere guys your white Christmases. Must be magical at this time of year.
Will be thinking of you while I’m sunbathing on the beach…
You’re killin’ me, Steve! Don’t even talk to me about sunbathing on the beach until somewhere around April. I’m trying to pretend beaches don’t even exist right now. I’m in an alternate reality where everything is white, and cold, and dark… and, I suppose, magical too.
Well, when the weather gets a little warm and sunny the snow melts some, but doesn’t always disappear. Then, the weather gets really cold again everything ends up covered in thick sheets of ICE. The really shiny, smooth, slippery kind. Walking becomes tough, especially on any sort of incline or declining area (like my driveway, walkway, and stair, all of which my landlord does not take care of). You can throw sand or salt on it but sometimes that’s just not enough. So, we take garden tools of the metal variety to chop it up and get rid of it, so we don’t slip or get stuck trying to get in or out of the driveway or front door.
Plus, my dog is really BIG and loves the snow so much she straight PULLS me 100mph toward the biggest snow bank in her sight… Let me tell you, I’ve gone on some not so fun sleigh rides (sin sleigh) feet right out from under me, her speedily barreling along with me in toe, twisting and turning and sliding on the ice behind her, while to holding onto that leash for dear life! It’s quite a sight, or so I’ve been told!
Hunter is a fortunate boy. There was nothing worse for me than sitting in a classroom looking at the window WISHING I could be outside in that falling snow. It wasn’t too good for concentration. Not to mention that recess was usually cancelled, which made those days oh so lonnnnnnng!
Hi Lisis!
I can’t believe I’m actually jealous of your snow photos – 10 years ago I would have done just about anything to escape my tundra surroundings in Minnesota. But, now, I quite miss the fluff!
OK, here are my Snow Tips:
1. Put a hay bale in the back of your pick up truck (if you have a truck) to keep from fish-tailing.
2. Keep a sleeping bag or other heavy blanket in your vehicle with mittens/hats/etc in case you ever run out of gas or have car trouble.
3. Drive to an empty parking lot during non-business hours and do as many cookies in the parking lot as possible.
4. Dry your hair before going outdoors.
5. Suggest Jeff cross-country ski to work as often as possible.
Other that those, I think you have everything covered!
YAY for SNOW!
Lori´s last blog ..Nine for 2009: My ‘Proof’ List
Great list, Lisis! I had to learn a lot of these things when I went to college – I didn’t grow up with snow at all.
I would add to the list by sharing a family saying “Cotton kills”. Cotton, when wet, as you discovered, is no longer warm. Wool on the other hand, will still keep you warm when it’s wet. So if you can’t find waterproof, find wool.
Also, watch out for your extremities when it gets really cold. Your body will keep your core warm and will abandon fingers and toes and ears and noses. Wearing lots and lots of layers is the trick!
Good luck! I want to hear how your adventures continue!
Daphne´s last blog ..No Marriage Is Perfect
I’m a snow noob too. I’ve only seen the stuff twice in my entire life. The most recent being a trip to Minnesota for a few days in October, and we happened to get some snow while we were there. It was nice to visit, but we were happy to get back to 80 to 90 degree weather. Looks you are making the most of it. It’s good to try new things, and experiencing a whole new environment must be quite fun.
Eric | Eden Journal´s last blog ..Listening to Your Inner Voice, Intuition
@ Miche: You mean recess gets CANCELLED, on account of the snow? The very thing the kids are wanting to go play in? Holy smokes! That WOULD make for a long day!!
I’ll have to look out for that layering effect of snow, upon ice, upon snow. Hunter actually discovered that for himself recently. He was digging in the snow and found that it was all fluffy for the first three inches, but if he brushed it aside there was a solid-seeming shelf under it (where the previous snow had started to melt and made a sheet of thin ice). It’s amazing the things kids will notice because they get right down into things! I would’ve stompled right through it with my big boots, and never even noticed!
@ Lori: A bale of hay, huh? How exactly does one come to own a bale of hay, I wonder? Wal-mart?
I love those tips, though… especially the emergency stuff in the car. That seems like a pretty sound move, considering the odds of ending up in a snow bank. Thanks!!
@ Daphne: I seriously had NO idea about the wool thing, which is pitiful considering Jeff is an expert in outdoor gear textiles, fabrics, etc. Goes to show you how much spouses learn from each other (not much!). He has probably told me about wool a zillion times, and it’s still “news” to me! I can only grasp a limited amount of information at one time. Thanks for the tip! Oh, and I totally know what you mean about extremities. My fingers have threatened to resign and head South without me on a few occasions now!
@ Eric: It really is good to try new things, learn new ways of living, and appreciate what others go through on a daily basis. There something very different, psychologically, about LIVING where it snows, as opposed to visiting the snow. There’s something about knowing that, even if you get sick of it, there’s no way out for a good, long while, so you’re just going to have to find a way to deal with it.
This reminds me of when I used to fly small planes over the desert, or the ocean, and the nearest airport was still an hour or two away, and I really had to pee, and… oh, well. Sometimes you’ve just gotta deal with discomfort for a while. Things don’t always work out the way we’d like them to, do they?
Snow is a magical and glorious thing.
The way to know if the snow is good for building, is simply make a test snowball, select a target and throw. How well does it hold together during flight? When it strikes the target, is there a bit of a thump? If there is a thump it might be too wet.
If it falls apart in flight it is too dry, but you might be able to throw it in the house. I raised boys and that does happen. You can also build forts, and as boys get older, you may find a large busted snow woman in your front yard. I have arrived home to that as well. Oh, and a snow pig with volcanic rock eyes.
Fun post today. Glad you are enjoying the snow.
Erin´s last blog ..Reconcile
Oh man, this brings back memories of Banff winters for me. Being Australian, you can imagine my noobness when first arriving into the Canadian Rockies. Luckily the locals I met took pity on me and gave me some pointers…
1. Only crazy people (and tourists) venture out when it’s minus 35 degrees Celcius or below.
2. There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad equipment (ie forget about Australian snow gear and get the real deal).
3. If white patches start to form on your skin, get the hell indoors and fast! That’s frost-bite.
4. Always, always take provisions such as blankets, shovel and firestarting equipment in your car in case you get stuck somewhere.
5. If it’s colder than about minus 20 Celcius, plug your car into a block heater or you’ll be walking to work (yep, learnt this the hard way).
6. Don’t cross the frozen river for at least a week after the first tourist has made it safely across.
7. When driving, feather the brakes instead of stepping on them or you could go straight when you wanted to turn, or turn when you wanted to go straight.
And finally…
8. Don’t touch your hair if it freezes, otherwise it’ll snap off (yep, also learnt this the hard way). Same goes for your eye lashes.
Sami – Life, Laughs & Lemmings´s last blog ..Passion vs Profit: Am I Kidding Myself?
@ Erin: Ahhh, yes… the joys of snow, particularly with boys around. Thanks for the heads up; I’ll have to enforce the rule of “Only powdery snowballs IN the house!” I can’t wait to see some of the more creative snow creatures!
@ Sami: Awesome rules, one and all. My husband is a huge fan of #2 on your list. I kinda like #7, and I’m a little freaked out by numbers 3 and 8! Just the other day, Hunter and I were walking as it was snowing, and I left my hair down and loose. Before long it was starting to freeze, and we were giggling about how funny that was. I bet it wouldn’t be one BIT funny if my hair broke off!! Sweet gracious! I’ll be more careful next time!
Lisis,
Believe it or not I have experienced this kind of snowfall for 4 winters when my family lived in Edmonton Alberta. It’s a nice little walk down memory lane for me. But, as a Californian the return to any place where it snows is HIGHLY UNLIKELY for me. Beautiful pics though.
Srinivas Rao´s last blog ..Guest Post: The Pandemic of Our Time: We Can’t Focus
The photos are great. We’re going back to MI tomorrow and i’m trying to mentally prepare for it. I think you and Hunter would both love snow-shoeing. Does Hunter get an official snow day when the schools are closed? I think he should;)
Tess The Bold Life´s last blog ..Traveling By Train: Lessons On Going With Life’s Flow
This is great! I loved it. With my Minnesota roots, I feel like I should have some more good snow advice for you…but my mind is going blank. I guess that means I’m now officially a southern californian softy…But one thing I really do love about the snow is the sense of stillness it creates, especially right after it snows…there is just this beautiful blanket of stillness…
Lisa (Mommy Mystic)´s last blog ..Spiritual Processing,Transits and Empowerments
[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by LisisMB, Terrapin Flyer. Terrapin Flyer said: NEW Ten Useful Tips for Snow Noobs, Like Me http://ow.ly/16a0HE [...]
Thanks for the tip on leaving the windshield wipers up. Living in Southern California, the only weather we experience is the sun, but I’ll be heading to Utah for some snowboarding, so this was a great reminder.
My dearest Lisis,
Youre doing this deliberately to make me miss snow even more…boohoo…how could you??? Here i’m trying to forget about the snow, and you have to show me those awesome pics….You had better play in it for me too…..or I tell you I will make up a new rule….
#Most Important Rule to Follow in the Snow- If you dont play in the snow on Zeenats behalf..you will be very very Snowy
You know i saw in one of those kids cartoons…that when those kids wanted snow they asked superman to go and bring big big barrels of snow…and throw it over their house and gardens…I think I am going to call on Superman…Hello hello yes, is this Superman….;)
Lots of love
Z
Zeenat{Positive Provocations}´s last blog ..Being Grateful for 2009!
Hi Lisis,
You had to know you’d hear from a couple of Canucks on this one
While we’re usually under a whole tonne of snow this time of year I can happily report that YOU HAVE MORE SNOW THAN WE DO! lol. Snow is awesome though, really!
*I have to agree with those who have advised against eating yellow snow probably not wise
*If you slide off the road and get stuck in the ditch get out and clear the snow from around your exhaust pipe.
*Oh and don’t stick your tongue to anything metal. I don’t think there’s a single Canadian kid who hasn’t stuck their tongue to a swing set or jacket zipper
And just because we have less snow than normal it’s still friggen cold (-48C the other morning…burrrr). Enjoy it Lisis it doesn’t last forever summer will be here soon enough
@ Srini: I’m impressed! I didn’t realize you had 4 Canadian winters under your belt. Now it makes even more sense why you are oh-so-appreciative of the California life. I think I did this backwards… Costa Rica to California to the frozen tundra! Maybe next we’ll end up “going back to Cali!”
@ Tess: Hunter’s entire life seems to be a snow day! We’ve taken it pretty light on the school stuff lately, because of the road trip, the move to Vermont in the Fall, his first real winter… that kind of stuff just seems WAY more significant than the printed words in those textbooks. He knows we’ve got to do some work to keep the Dept.of Education happy, but we’ll get to it after the holidays. What kind of Grinch would make a kid do school work during a snowy December? That’s what boring months, like January, are for!
@ Lisa: You and Srini, both, are running a pretty good campaign for our next move to be to California! You’re right about the beautiful blanket of stillness… but it has to be pretty soon after a snowfall. Right now we are in the “blankets of chaos melting off the roof” phase, with most of the snow on the ground looking brown and grungy. I think I’m ready for NEW snow! Keep it coming!!
@ Ken: So… you’re joining the pro-California rally, huh? Believe me, it won’t take much to convince me to head back THERE! But if you’re heading to the snow in Utah, then by all means, check out some of the tips by the snow pros here. These people know what they are talking about!
@ Zeenat: I thought about FEDEXing you some snow, but I was pretty sure it wouldn’t make it there quite in that form. So I decided instead to go out in it, and try to capture it on film for you (which is not easy since I’m a crappy photographer AND my camera tends to freeze shut!). But you’d better believe I’m playing for you, for me, and for all the snowy winters I’ve missed!
@ Sherri: I was hoping you would stop by, ’cause I figured you’d know a thing or two about snow survival tips. Let me tell you, that tail pipe thing is one of the best I’ve heard. I never would’ve thought of it, but as soon as I read it, I realized the simple but strategic significance of that one. In fact, Jeff was on his way out the door to go snowshoeing, so I made sure he learned that one too!
As for the tongue on metal thing, fortunately I learned that lesson a while back, from The Christmas Story movie… that was seared into my brain!
Oh, and if you get those white patches (frost bite)…DON’T RUB. That will just break the frozen tissue and cause more damage. Better to apply direct warmth, like someone’s warm hand.
And if you do get frost bite, on a certain body part..well, that’s the first place you’ll keep getting it for the rest of your life. Because the tissue was damaged and you tend to get poor circulation in that areas.
Areas to watch out for are the tips of your fingers, toes, tips of your nose, cheeks, and ear lobes.
Don’t get too freaked out, though. There are different levels of severity of frostbite. It’s not like you’ll automatically lose a finger or toe or something.
If you take care of it quickly and get into a warm house, it’s no big deal. Mabye skin that’s tender for a few days, and it’s no big deal.
But just be aware of it (especially if you get numb feeling). That’s when you gotta watch yourself.
PS. If you’re thinking of swimming on any beaches in Vermont, the lakes will START to become a reasonsable swimming temperature towards late June.
Thanks for the frostbite tips… that sounds entirely UNappealing! I’ll be sure to do my best to avoid that issue completely!
So, I can start swimming in June, and be done by mid August, when it starts to cool down again? Hm. I don’t think I’ll be taking up any water sports here.
I may need to take up knitting (or serious blogging!)
I thought of another…..don’t let the level of gas in your car get below 1/4 tank cuz it could freeze if its cold enough. And if you know its going to drop below zero over night, turn the faucets on (just a trickle) and leave them running all night so the pipes dont freeze.
I like it that you’re learning about snow and playing in it. Snow can be awesome. There are so many different kinds — the super-dry, diamond sparkles kind, the “good packing” kind that makes good snowballs and snowmen, the fluffy soft kind, and more.
My tips:
1. If your car starts to skid, GENTLY steer into the skid. That is, if the front is sliding to the left, steer to the left. This will make it easier to stop the car.
2. Carry kitty litter in your trunk to sprinkle under the tires for times when you find yourself stuck on ice or slippery snow.
3. If you have to rock the car to get out of a slick spot, don’t spin the wheels. Noobs tend to do that, thinking that the wheels will melt the ice or snow, but it just makes it slicker. Instead, drive slowly forward until you can’t go any further, then quickly switch to reverse and go backward until you can’t, repeat over and over until the distance gradually increases and you’re out. If you can’t go forward or back, get help to push the car out.
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@ Charity: Oh, yeah… the gas in the car! Jeff is notorious for coming home with the tank on Empty. Time to change that little habit, huh?
@ Dot: It amazes me that there are so many different variations of snow. Never a dull moment in this stuff, since every day is a new experience!
That kitty litter tip is FANTASTIC… totally makes sense, and I never would’ve thought of it. And the rocking back and forth thing JUST happened to my hubby, when he oh-so-nearly got stuck. I’m glad he figured out the right way to get himself out of there; I would’ve hated pushing that truck!
Hi Lisis,
I loved reading this because it was nice to see a newcomers experience with snow. My advice would be to always make sure that the car has at least a half a tank and always refill when it gets to a half tank. And the same goes for food, just always have what you need.
One thing that I do love about the snow is the silence that comes with it (before the snow trucks come) and of course, it is beautiful to look at it.
And don’t forget the hot chocolate! A necessity when you come inside from playing with the snow.
Nadia – Happy Lotus´s last blog ..How Much Money is Enough?
Mm! This is my first read of this blog, and I love the topic! I live in Buffalo, NY, which is famous (infamous?) for heavy snow because it is situated near a lake, which cool winds sweep over and pound us with snow. I’ve lived here for 27 years. I will not say I always love the snow (about January 15 I start cursing as I brush off my car), but I tolerate it. Here are my tips.
1. Buy the longest, strongest snow brush you can find for your car. If long enough, you can use it from just one side of your windshield/rear window instead of trudging to the other side of your car.
2. When you get to your car, turn it on while you brush so that the car is toasty warm when you climb inside. (Or splurge and get a remote starter like so many people here.)
3. Invest in a nice, long, warm quilted coat and tall waterproof boots. You cannot go overkill on these items. They make it feel nice to be outside.
4. When you get into your car, be sure to tuck your nice long warm quilted coat under you so that it does not get caught in the car door.
5. Pack an emergency backpack in your car. It should have at the very LEAST: 2 or more pair replacement socks, a change of clothes (including sneakers or boots), a flashlight, a collapsible shovel, and 2 or more pieces of wood. These are to get your car out of a snowbank, and if you’re caught somewhere (or your socks get soaked through) at least you will have some new clothes.
6. Watch out for black ice! First thing we Buffalonians tell newcomers. Black ice is actually clear-colored ice on streets. It looks like water, until you try to stop on it! Whee!
@ Nadia: Yeah, I figured there probably weren’t too many people writing about their very first time living in the snow… most people either know all about it, or are just visiting (and don’t think much about the practical details). I am LOVING all the super useful tips coming out of this, and hot chocolate is a MUST.
@ Courtney: Welcome to Q4B! I’m glad you picked this post to start on ’cause I can always use more tips from snow pros (and Buffalonians certainly fit in that category!). We definitely need to invest in the snow brush, and the two pieces of wood sound brilliant. It’s a little like living in the back country, having to think of all the things that could possibly go wrong, just to be safe! Pretty exciting, when you think about it.
Thanks!
We’ve had snow on the ground in Chicago since before Christmas. Let me tell you that snow in the city looks nice for about 24 hours. Any longet than that and it’s grey then black and absolutely, not pretty.
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Tom, I completely agree. When I wrote this post, it had snowed for a couple of days, and it was the first snow of the season. NOW, the brownish/ gray/ slushy stuff out there is anything but lovely.
One thing I definitely learnt the hard way is to make sure your pipes are protected from the freezing temperatures! It’s an absoulte nightmare if your pipes burst during frozen weather and it’s pretty simple to stop.
Jim Who Suffered From Frozen Pipes!´s last blog ..What To Do If you Have A Frozen Pipe
That’s a great point, Jim… I’ll have to keep that in mind (and get my husband to check!)
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