Rose Cottage Ltd

You have to give the meteorological specialists some credit for forecasting this latest winter storm well in advance. If you’re smart and in its path – please stay home.

In North Carolina, I’ve known since Sunday that this would be a “iffy” weather week and have been able to plan accordingly. There were actually snow flurries here Monday morning followed by a bit of rain, but that was just a taste of what may happen in the next 48 hours.

I don’t stress too much about weather. When you drive a Mini Cooper you know there will be times like this when YOU will not be on the road. I shop in advance for what I think I might need, and make sure that when ice and power outages are in the mix, my trusty Thermos full of hot coffee is ready.

But now that it is Wednesday morning and nothing has happened as yet, the waiting for it gets a bit stressful. Schools are closed today locally and I have to wonder if stores won’t be slammed this morning with people out shopping – for what, I don’t know.

I figure that some of the shopping is a stress release for many. It gives them something to do. There is but so much “planning” you can do and there is something weird for adults and kids to keep having these little mini-vacations due to bad weather. It feels like playing hooky. There’s nothing on the ground, but snow and then ice are coming – should I be doing “something?”

There is only so much you can do at this point other than just wait. Make sure you have plenty of gas in your car. Check batteries in flashlights and locate any candles you have. If you have a generator in case of power outages make sure it is working and ready to go. I don’t go crazy buying food because I have been in ice storms in Maryland that knocked out power for nearly a week. The last thing I needed to worry about then was another $200 worth of food I just stuck in the refrigerator before the storm.

It’s almost like preparing for a major exam. Once you’re in your seat and your pen or pencil works and the exam starts – you just do it. The anticipation stress of what’s coming is over. I have food available, and a full Thermos, a thick blanket (thanks Mom,) and a thick novel to read.

“Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow…”