The colder, darker months require all of us to adapt more to our environment and ensure we are taking some different steps than normal to be courteous to our fellow humans and pets. I am a warm weather girl. There is no doubt about it. So, I struggle with patience and kindness when the weather gets cold and the snow starts to fall. The days may feel long and cold. The electrical bill can go through the roof. But, my daughter loves the winter. So, I have had to change my grizzly attitude and have found adopting a few of the etiquette tips below have helped me survive the frigid temperatures with a smile and warm heart.
Shoveling: Sure, plowing, and major snow removal are generally done by your landlord or the state, city, and county you live in but sometimes, however, a big storm hits, the snow is incredibly high and everyone who is able can pitch in to shovel a little bit. Take care of your driveway and walkway first but then help a neighbor. Even the kids can get involved by rolling the excess snow up into snowmen or to have snowball fights. Those who are unable to shovel but need to leave their house or neighborhood will be grateful for your thoughtfulness. Remember to pile snow out of the way of traffic patterns and walking areas.
Snowball-Fights: We’ve all seen those movies where an innocent snowball fight quickly escalates, then turns into a fun romp in the fresh powder. In real life though, snowball fights can lead to injury. So, never pack an object inside a snowball, such as a rock. While funny, avoid shots to the face. Snowballs should never be thrown at the elderly. Unless the elderly throws the first ball, then it’s game on.
Boots: When you come in from outside and into a common area of your home or office, do your best to clean your boots on the front mat before heading inside. Close your eyes and hear your mother’s voice in your head. The salt, gravel and dirt that are used to melt ice on the roads and sidewalks all get tracked inside via your boots. If it’s mostly contained to one area, it will be much easier for the person who needs to clean.
Cold Air: While you may feel hot (hey, some of us do with all those layers on!) be mindful that others who dream of tropical climates and are very sensitive to the cold. Do not prop open the front door when you are bringing in groceries or packages to your office or home for an extended period of time. Having a window or door propped open can actually cause your electricity bill to skyrocket!
Netflixxing: During the winter, people tend to spend a lot more time indoors. It’s also the perfect time to catch up on Netflix. When hosting, let your guest pick the movie. Who’s watching anyways, right? If you’ve already seen the movie and series before, don’t spoil the ending for your guests. Make sure your snuggle blanket has been washed since the last snowstorm.
Pets: It’s cold, it’s snowing, and Fido needs to go outside to use the bathroom. How tempting it is to just let him go directly in front of your neighbor’s house so you can quickly run inside to warm up! It is important to still clean up after your pet, regardless of the temperature outside. Remember that someone may accidentally step in Fido’s mess, and you wouldn’t want that person to be you. Remember the pets in the neighborhood and buy pet-friendly salt available at your local hardware store.
Winter is here, and it can feel long. A little kindness goes a long way to making your community a safer and happier place during these months.