It took me 45 minutes to get home from work on Wednesday, Nov. 7 when Athena hit Long Island, which is an eternity because I live close. People were screaming at each other, horns were blaring throughout Old Country Road and I actually had to get out of my car and plead with a driver to let me over so I could make a right turn.
To get a head start on the commute the next morning, I shoveled my car, three other cars, my landlord’s path (he’s 90) and the steps leading up to my dwelling. Hand to God.
When all was said and done, I turned around and an inch of fresh powder had graced the space where I had just shoveled, with more to come most likely. A deep sigh followed.
A waste of time? Initially, I thought yes. Then I thought, ‘At least in the morning, I’ll only have to move an iceberg, rather than a glacier.’
If Mother Nature’s angry daughters Sandy and Athena are an indication of what’s to come this winter, best be prepared. Don’t hoard, but stock up on batteries, flashlights, canned goods and ice. The list could go on, but you get the point.
It’s better to be safe than sorry. Stay warm.
—RF
