Living and Training in Snow Country Part II

In spite of the official change of seasons, it is most definitely still winter up here in the Sierra. Although we spend plenty of time and energy on snow removal, there's something absolutely wonderful about being snowed in. The freeway is closed because of avalanche danger, so I can't get to work. The resort is closed because of avalanche danger, so Andrew doesn't have to go in to work. It's a stolen day off together with no serious responsibilities, and the world is white and clean and new.
       

The view out my kitchen window

Locals are comparing the snow totals to the el-nino year of 82-83, which is a legendary winter in these parts. This kind of snow pack means good things for the drought conditions, but I worry what it will mean for spring flooding in the valleys. 

A number of people have asked me for pictures of the snow, so that's the primary purpose of this post. All of these photos were taken of houses in my neighborhood. Enjoy my winter wonderland!

With Natalie and the dogs, digging out her parking space.

This is the front walkway to my friend Jenelle's house.

You'd better know where you're going around here. This is about the last street sign that isn't buried.

I swear my friend Susie's house is in this picture. It's under that big pile of snow.

Our neighbors across the street have a beautiful house. Right now though, it pretty much looks like everyone else's: white.

This is our house as seen from the neighbor's driveway.

This is the front entrance to our new mud-room. This is on the second story, by the way. That snow piled up on the side extends another 10 feet below this picture.

Believe it or not, I'm still getting in some good running. I'll be bailing on the snow this weekend though, assuming the interstate reopens. Sometimes training in snow country means getting out of it.