I mentioned that we were hit with ice…..again….and a little snow.  They are actually predicting a HEAVY snow the first of next week and, honestly, I believe I prefer snow to the ice.  Ice is just soooo difficult to navigate, both when driving and walking.  Yep, I’ve already busted my butt on the ice once….but I will show you how I plan to prevent in the future!  I have a secret weapon, that is proving to work out great!  But, I will get to that in a moment.  First, let me share some of the beauty, albeit, frustrating scenery mother nature has chosen to grace us with!

Let’s talk for a moment about how we can make things easier and safer during the icy cold weather.  On top of the ice we have received, the meteorologists are predicting a “snowmagedon” this coming weekend, with record breaking snowfall and temps below zero.  I am not looking forward to it on any level, but have learned some things over the years that will help when I have to navigate the predicted weather conditions.  In fact, the most recent thing I’ve done, is purchase the ice and snow grippers pictured on the left.  These were less than  $9 on Amazon, and were originally purchased to used! at work on the ambulance when we encounter slick roads, porches, driveways, etc.  Unfortunately, I had to fall and bust my butt on the ice before I thought to try them over my Muck boots.  I was surprised they fit, and chores have not been done without them since!  Another cheap alternative we used as kids, was socks…..yep, take a pair of large stretchy socks and put them OVER our shoes or boots.  The socks have enough texture to create enough friction to prevent slips and falls.  You will most likely be sacrificing the socks from any future regular wear; but, at my age, I would rather replace a pair of socks that a hip!  

Additional tips for cold weather attire:

1.  Dress in layers.  Light weight, multiple layers are actually warmer than a single heavy layer.  I seldom wear a heavy coat, but frequently wear a t-shirt, over shirt, hooded sweatshirt AND a zip up jacket when heading outside.  I find this much warmer than any heavy coat I’ve ever tried.  Another advantage to dressing in layers, is that if you begin to sweat, you can remove a layer, without allowing too much heat to escape.  I layer leggings with my jeans; use multiple pairs of socks, and layer knit gloves inside my leather gloves.

2. Dress in natural fibers.  Wearing cotton, wool, or even silk is much warmer than synthetic fabrics such as spandex, polyester or nylon.  In addition, the natural fibers will absorb moisture and pull it away from your body, which keeps you warmer.

3.  Invest in good quality insulated rubber boots.  Not only do they

slip off and on easily, but the rubber prevents your feet from getting wet and therefore getting colder.

4.  Don’t forget a hat, preferably a stocking type hat.  This  will keep your ears warm and safe from frostbite, and also keep heat from escaping your body.  Did you the biggest point of heat loss is from your head?  Keeping your head covered with a warm hat, keeps your entire body warmer.