
But the snow.
It snowed last night and now it is sleeting/raining/vomiting on top of about 8" of the stuff. Looks like misery incarnate to go out there. It is going to freeze though, so there is a lot to be done. Plow came (thank you world for that) but unlike other storms where the snow will melt or can be picked away at, this one has a tight timeframe with freezing temps on the way, turning the whole mess to ice. Yet every time I want to really complain (this is a whine, not a full out complaint, if you can't tell the difference) I think of my amazing neighbor Mary who, at an age above 80, still insists on shoveling herself, and it is a game to try to get out there before she does. She is a tall, strong woman, who has survived both polio and cancer, and handled the latter with such grace, strength, and positivity it seemed like she was shaking off the common cold. I am in awe of this woman and her quiet, kind, reserved manner. Always thoughtful with her words, never judgemental, always assuming the good and offering a smile and sincere kindness at every turn. She is an amazing woman who has served others her whole life, as her stellar nursing career lasted longer than I have been alive. Now she cares for her sister, who is also an amazing woman, and plays with the house furniture like it is a dolls house, always making new arrangements and, of course, moving everything herself despite offers to help. I am thrilled to see that their puppy Mia has bonded closely with her, and they are clearly a team. It is great to see the love fest between them - she so deserves it! Mary is one of those rare people who one feels honored just to know, and I realize how lucky I am to be her neighbor.
I better stop writing and get my arse out there before she does. I want to do her steps :)
Cheers.