It had been awhile since we had a monster snowstorm. But as Pennsylvanians, we know the pre-storm drill. Admit it, you probably went to the grocery store a day or two before Snowmageddon 2026, right?
And perhaps you were drawn to the bread aisle, a pursuit which was likely unsuccessful. You may have been caught up in the quest for Ice Melt, a search that also proved fruitless for most, unless you happened to catch a delivery in progress!
These are the traditional preparations for snow storms: Is there gas in the snow blower? Is my snow shovel in reach? Do I have my candles accessible in case of power outage? Do I have a lighter? Are my portable phone chargers themselves charged? How about my phone — is it charged? Do I have comforters at the ready, in case we lose power and there is no heat? How about perishable foods? Ah yes, the joys of being a Pennsylvanian in the winter.
Winters here of late in my area have been a tad lame. Last year, I only fired up Big Red, my trusty snowblower, one time. Once. She was gassed up and ready to go, but only got to shine once. She was a bit disappointed.
Well, this year, Big Red got to show off her stuff. We have had a few respectable snowfalls, but the Jan. 25 storm really challenged her. The driveway drifts were at least 6 inches taller than she is, but her tenacity coupled with my stubbornness met the challenge. Once again, job well done, Big Red.
I must say, storms like this bring out the best in many people. In my neighborhood, those with snowblowers are happy to help out those neighbors without, or perhaps those who are older or have physical issues. The spirit of giving is abundant in the face of extreme conditions.
Also apparent is the love of our furry family members. I cannot tell you how many times I shoveled a path for my black lab to be able to do her business as needed. After the ice came and put a crusty layer on the foot of snow that we received, I had to blaze a long path for her by stomping through it. I know my neighbors and friends with pups did much the same. Yes, we love our four-legged friends!
There is no doubt about it, snow is beautiful to behold. When I woke up the morning after the storm, everything was covered with a white covering, pristine and glistening in the gleam of the sunlight of a new day.
Birds gather around a bird feeder in Terry Alburger’s yard. (Terry Alburger)
Trees gleamed, our street was untouched and smooth, and as far as the eye could see there was a blanket of white. It was serenity incarnate. The only movement came from the crowds of birds that had gathered around the three bird feeders in my yard. So many varieties of birds all huddled together against the elements, not giving a thought to their potential differences. The blue jay and the wren, the dove and the sparrow, the cardinal and the starling, all together to share a meal and get through the storm. Not a bad strategy, if you ask me.
