Monday, December 05, 2005

It's all about the snow now

Before committing to a life long relationship you really should make sure that you and your prospective life partner share the same beliefs. You should have open and honest discussions about child rearing, religion, shared responsibilities and if you live in the Northeast you will want to discuss your feelings on snow removal. Common beliefs on snow removal won’t guarantee a long and happy relationship – but it will sure help.
We had friends (who have since moved south) who felt that snow shovels and tall boots were redundant. I don’t know if you have ever visited the home of friends who don’t shovel in say…. February – let me tell you it’s a challenge. But… since they both felt the same way, icy sidewalks and cars getting stuck in the driveway was not a point of contention for them.

One of the reasons my wife and I are still happily together after all these years is we are symbiotic snow removers. Yesterday’s 2 inch spritz was removed by shovel. We didn’t even need to discuss shovel vs. snowthrower – we just both picked up our respective shovels (my wife uses one of those odd looking back saver shovels) and started clearing.
With no discussion we set about clearing the driveway first – being careful to push the snow back a foot or so onto the grass. This is our standard method especially early in the season. It gives room for future storms as well as allows the snow to melt into the grass and flow onto the driveway where it can refreeze. Once the driveway was done, we each went around to other various areas to clear. All entry ways are cleared, even tho we really only use one. The patio is cleared, all gates to the fenced backyard are cleared for access, the garbage cans are shoveled out and all around the wood bin behind the garage is also done. Walkways are shoveled to their full width…not just a path the width of the shovel. We both feel this is civilized.
We are perfect for each other.
It’s going to snow again tonight.

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