Driving In The Snow

If you live in Michigan in the northern part of the state you have two things in the winter that are equal to any other part of the country. You have deep snow and rugged terrain. In lake effect country you can get twelve to thirteen inches of snow over night, and there are roads as steep as you will find anywhere.

I say this because I want you to realize that I grew up driving in deep snow. I had snow tires on my car, but like all Michiganders that is all I had. No one I know would let five or six inches stop them from driving. Sure I spent my share of time stuck in the snow, but that was just the price one paid for living in God’s country.

So I want to know is what's the big deal about a little snow on the road? Some parts of the country shut down at the sight of a snow flake and others won’t let you drive without tire chains. In Michigan you can have chains as long as they don’t make contact with the surface of the road. I can’t think of a single person that even owns a set of the things.

You put a shovel in the trunk along with a blanket and some kitty litter for traction and you’re good to go. If you get stuck to deep to dig out, well that’s why they make tow trucks. Only wimp wouldn't drive in the snow around here.

Snow Day

It’s snowing, and watching it brings to mind the great mysteries of childhood. Is it true no two snow flakes are the same, will your tongue really stick to the flag pole if you lick it, and the big one will we get enough snow to have a snow day?

A snow day is a true gift from the weather gods. What a wonderful thing to wake up to. The homework was all done and there was nothing for you to do except bundle up and go out and play. It did not matter if it was cold and the wind was blowing, you couldn’t waste a snow day. Make a snow angel, build a snow man, or have a snow ball fight. The choices were endless.

A real good storm could shut things down for days and best of all if it came late in the week you would have a long weekend. That meant one or two nice days when you could go sliding on the hill across the road or skating on the pond with your friends.

Digging out was for the grownups and now you are a grownup. Enjoy the snow.