48 degrees - 10:26 am - blue sky and sunshine...
Wildlife is abundant. No lions or tigers here… bears, bobcats and cougars, yes. Sunshine is intense. At this altitude, it’s easier to burn, both in summer and winter.
And it snows in the mountains. It’s part of the allure for most of us living here… fluffy white stuff to play in through the crisp (hopefully sunny) winters. The winter winds may be harsh, but those who live in snowy, cold climates know there is still charm to be found in the season. When you are relaxing in front of a warm fire or enjoying a rich meal with a gathering of friends and family, it’s easy to forget the wintry weather just outside the door.
It does take some preparation to enjoy the winter months. Four-wheel drive vehicles, snow tires or chains, a blade or snow blower, all just to stay mobile. Typically our annual snowfall can range anywhere from 24 inches to 164 inches. So it’s best to be prepared for whatever Mother Nature brings out way.
The temperatures are dropping, the rain is falling, but we can’t sit back and enjoy the amazing burst of fall foliage just yet.
To keep winter weather concerns at bay, a little preparation can go a long way. As the flakes start to fall (which is less than a month away), it’s important to get outside and ensure that our home is safe for us, our guests, neighbors and anyone else who stops by. While these tasks likely aren’t at the top of our favorite winter activities list, they will save us from bigger headaches as the season progresses.
Before the snow flies, we need to get our propane tanks installed and filled; clear the ditches along the driveway; service the snow blower and snow mobiles (which belong to our neighbors); stock our vehicles with extra blankets, jumper cables, a tow rope, shovel, snowshoes, and some snacks and activities for the kids (just in case we get stuck in the snow); stock the pantry; and try to complete as many outside projects on the house as we can before the snow comes.
There’s no denying that there are some headaches that come along with winter. But if we try to be as prepared as possible, we will spend more time enjoying the season instead of laboring outside.
