We got a little bit of snow in Kentucky this week. In many areas of the country 6 to 7 inches wouldn't seem like much. But in small communities where there are mountains and narrow roads to contend with that can be a lot of snow. Especially when there isn't a lot of equipment available to clear roadways and the snow comes all at once. So across the state there are quite a few people who are home bound with children out of school. That might be okay for a few days, but it can get stressful for adults and children alike when a day or two begins to look like an entire week and you hear more snow might be on the way. So I've put together a list of things you might want to stock up on or dig out when faced with the prospect of being snowed in.
10. A soft bed with lots of pillows and blankets. When you can't go anywhere take advantage of getting some extra sleep if possible--even if it is a midday nap.
9. Lots of warm clothing such as flannel shirts or pajamas, fleecy pants or sweats, or just sweats in general are comfortable and warm and still make it look like you made an effort to get dressed even if you can't go anywhere.
8. If you have one of these or a couple of these you might need a pair of these...
For those of you who have dogs or children you might be aware of the fact that they still need outside time. The dogs to relieve themselves and the children because snow=sledding=snow ball fights=snowmen. A warm coat and gloves are also highly recommended under these types of conditions. Also, if you get a little stir crazy boots are useful for walking down the road to see how other people in the neighborhood are handling the snow or just to see how the roadways are looking and how many people are still driving on them.
7. A sled, trash can lid, dining hall tray, or even in some instances a laundry basket can make for some great memories in the snow. You can rediscover your childhood by careening down the hill in the snow with your children or dog or spouse or partner. Remember what it was like find entertainment out of the simple things in life.
6. Movies are a great way to pass the time. Suddenly all those DVDs you've acquired over the years and only watched once after you got them are old friends again. You can use them to educate your children about your childhood too. That way they might be able to understand you when you make movie references to things that somehow only you or your partner or spouse find funny. It also might help alleviate the dreaded question, "So what are we going to do now?"
5. Books. One good thing about being snowed in is having a valid excuse for catching up on your reading. Only one of my children seems to enjoy this, but I'm still hoping to help the other one find a genre he loves.
4. If you have internet access Netflix can seem like the greatest thing ever. Cartoons that you don't have to buy are in seemingly endless supply on instant streaming sites like this. Also, if you have internet access Buzz Feed links like these are also fun for amusing yourself and all your friends who also might be snowed in. You can share quiz results and important trivia via the internet or over the phone and feel like you are bonding even though you can't see said friends.
3. Hot chocolate. Even if you don't go out in the snow and cold this is still an essential item to have. It is warm and comforting and it tastes good. A mug of hot cocoa, a warm blanket, comfy clothes and a good movie or book. What could be better?
2. Board games. Unbelievably enough my kids to eventually grow tired of staring at a screen. When they roll their eyes at me for suggesting reading a book or I've run out of chores for them to do their eyes light up when I suggest a board game or card game. You can kill an hour or more without even realizing it playing monopoly.
1. Patience. The number one most essential item to have when you are snowed in is patience. It takes time for road crews to get caught up on clearing the roadways. People you love and get to have forced quality time with can wear on your nerves and you can do the same for them. It is important to remember that being snowed in is only temporary and keeping a sense of humor about it can help you keep your patience. And if all else fails you can always shovel some snow to help you keep your cool. Or better yet offer to shovel snow for a neighbor who maybe isn't spry enough to do it for themselves.
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