In the winter of 2009 I was living in Pocatello when the
local news announced an impending storm. The storm was labeled “the storm of
the century” with forecasts for three feet of snow. Store shelves were emptied
of food and water as residents stockpiled provisions in anticipation of the
apocalyptic event. When the day of the storm arrived, we received about a foot
of snow! What a letdown.
I was in Pocatello last week meeting with several
clients. I was repeatedly asked about how I coped with the Island Park winter,
especially the snow fall. They were surprised when I told them that I enjoyed
the winter. It is fun adapting to the challenges of the lower temperatures and
higher snow fall. I explained that one has to prepare for winter before it
begins. Exterior cabin repairs must be made before everything is winterized and
stored away. Firewood is split, stacked and covered. Propane tanks are filled.
The pantry is stocked and winter clothes are replaced if necessary.
I explained to my friends that the trick to enjoying the
winters in Island Park is to be ready for them before they arrive. That is why
when we get a three foot snow, the shelves at Robin’s Roost remain stocked.
The residents of Island Park have learned how to avoid crisis
through preparation. I have benefited from good friends who continue to teach
me how to make winters enjoyable in the high country. I am sure that without
their help I would have been jumping from one winter crisis to another instead
of enjoying the beauty of Island Park’s winter white cloak.
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