Most Canadians keep a shovel in the garage, and it’s not to build sandcastles but to shovel snow.
A single snowstorm can bring ten, twenty, thirty or more centimetres of snow and it can make getting out of the house a challenge. If you live in an apartment, you’ll be fine (yet you may have to shovel your balcony). But if you live in a house, you will soon be familiar with the shovelling routine. Clearing the driveway, especially the edge, is the most-hated winter chore.
There are different kinds of snow. Wet snow may be the prettiest but it’s also a bitch to shovel because it’s so heavy. For ice, you need a metal shovel (or a flamethrower… I still wish we could use these!). For the heavy slush at the end of the driveway, you mostly need patience and a lot of time.
That said, shovelling snow is good exercise and a great way to meet your neighbours! You are all in this together… eh!
Share this article!
I keep shovels very handy – on the front porch!
But it seems as though spring has arrived early – such beautiful weather we’re having!
I know, it’s amazing! I hope it stays that way. I wouldn’t want to have to go through another blizzard now that we are used to warmer temperatures.
Lots of people in MTL have a snow blower even if they have only a small drive way to clean. I used to like shoveling snow but then again I only had a small walkway 🙂
It’s not that common in Ottawa, from what I can see. Lots of people shovel their own driveway, or hire someone to do it with a truck.
Ah, yes. Even I have a snow shovel. Bizarrely though, I haven’t had the need to use it this year!
Lucky you! I’ve used it a few times since we got back.
It is good that you enjoy the pretty white snow. Here in Tulsa it was 80F today and no snow. We have to content ourselves with the flowering shrubs and trees instead.
No flowers here yet but temperatures are definitely warmer than usual!
“or a flamethrower”
HAHAHA, I actually laughed out loud in the office at this one 🙂
I don’t miss driving in snow, but I actually miss shoveling snow, you’re right it’s great exercise and a good excuse to go outside when it’s cold.