Winter Prep Time—Revisited

 

 

By Jack Boardman
Sunday (“October Sunday Morning—Winter Prep Time“) I regaled you with my list of things to do to prepare my vast (60’x102’) city estate here in the oldest part of Old Saint Paul, MN. The list, with what was accomplished in parentheses):

 

 

 

 

Jack’s to-do list:

• Take the snow blower in for necessary repairs as the auger part doesn’t work. Yes, I KNOW I should have done this in April, but in April I was too busy enjoying the spring, and all thoughts of winter were quickly fading away. It should be noted at this point—if the snow blower IS repaired, we’ll have little snow—if it IS NOT repaired, we’ll have a 36” blizzard in October, as we did in 1991! (This was completed Monday afternoon—should be repaired in about 8 days—this means the blizzard must start tomorrow!)
• Cut the rest of the grass. Yep, our recent monsoons have caused what passes for grass on our estate to grow about six inches in a mere week. I have cut grass in December—somewhat amusing cutting the grass after the holiday lights were up. (Took a nap instead. Afterwards, replaced blind in the kitchen window while I was removing storm windows to be cleaned—Teresa seems to like actually being able to SEE out our windows—go figure.)
• Remove all freezable non-flammable liquids from our yard-barn, and place them inside. That’s kind of obvious. (Done!)
• Disconnect the hoses. I don’t have to shut off the outside faucets, they have deeply-recessed petcocks that do not freeze, but if the hoses are not disconnected, the trapped water in the 18” pipe will expand as it freezes and—let’s just say—the repairs are costly. (Done!)
• Take the lawnmower in for a physical. Again, if I take it in, the grass will continue to grow at an alarming rate—if I don’t—snow will fall at an alarming rate. (Will wait on this ‘til the ‘blower is back.)

Monday was an absolutely spectacular fall day—and I took some personal time (read: paid time) off. Did I mow that remaining bit of grass? In the front yard? Where all passers by will see it? Absolutely not! I took my special little buddy, Daisy-Legs for a nice walk. Both of us, the rather surprised Daisy (Walk? Now? With me? Bow Woo!), and I enjoyed our trek.

So there you have it—some progress—some procrastination. Oh, and before I forget—It is a seasonal 36ºF on this crystal-clear morning in Old Saint Paul, Minnesota.

And—I am enjoying my “Danger Bay Collectible Mug” of organically and shade grown, fair trade, French roast coffee as I write this post—cheers!