11 Ways to Survive Winter Storm Jonas

I majored in English Education, and have spent ten years in the classroom. But from mid-December through March, I transform into a weather enthusiast and self-proclaimed expert in storm simulations.

I’ve been glued to Winter Storm Jonas since last weekend. The anticipation has mounted and here it is, 24 hours away. With Scott in Vegas for work this week and my unexpected snow day today (come on, Virginia, salt those roads…), I thought I would impart some of our Western New York Snow Day Wisdom with you all. It’s a 6th sense, if you will.

Panic. And then realize trouble can be mostly avoided if you STAY OFF THE ROADS. Seriously. Don’t be that person who braves the storm and then requires emergency vehicles when they could be used elsewhere. In our twenties, we’d be one of those dummies. In our 30’s, we know better.
Toilet paper and booze. Make sure you have both.
Dog food (or whatever animal in your care requires sustenance). Remember: rice, chicken and vegetables will work in a pinch, but better to have a stash anyway.
If power stays on, you’ll need a Netflix subscription so you can binge Making a Murderer. And then you can talk to us about it. Also, old episodes of Friends, The Mentalist, and Lie to Me are all acceptable substitutions. Oh, Patrick Jane, how I miss you!
Nintendo, cards, and strip (fill in your favorite game) will suffice as snow day activities. If the kids are around, save the strip poker until after bedtime.
Find a restaurant crazy enough to stay open during the snow and be careful walking there. Last year, we tripped into Restaurant Eve and enjoyed a couple hot toddies while talking with Todd Thrasher and Chef Armstrong. Needless to say, I walked away with Scott pinching me. #localcelebritysighting
Grab your camera and document the white stuff. I plan on getting Ivan out for a few playful snow pictures this year.
Drink all your milk so you have room to chill your champagne.
Make sure you have a sled and a shovel.
As an English teacher, I encourage you to read a book. There. Now pass the message on to your kids. Please and thank you.
Get back in bed and throw on a good movie. Grab that champagne you chilled, and make out with your significant other. ;)