by Kevin S. Engle
I’m not allowed to shovel snow or run the snowblower for a few weeks.
Doctor’s orders.
I had minor surgery recently. I’m not sure why it’s called minor when my pain seems major. Ok, I’m a wimp but still.
The procedure was Wednesday.
The snow and sleet began Saturday night. When it was over 24 hours later, there was more than a foot of it on the ground.
Not the best time to be laid up inside.
My wife wasn’t deterred. She could take care of it.
No doubt, but I thought we should hire someone to do it this time.
Our driveway is long and this was a lot of snow.
She still went out Sunday morning to shovel a bit. Take care of the sidewalk and steps and in front of the garage doors.
I felt guilty. I was warm and toasty inside while she was out in the cold working hard.
Plow guy would be here later.
When he didn’t show up by 5PM the next day, I called.
“I can’t do it,” he said. “I broke the axle on my truck.”
Oh boy, now what?
I texted the neighbors. Did they know anyone I could call? I got some names and numbers, plus offers to help.
“Brad and I can do it” Judy said. “I’ll be over at 10 in the morning,” he told her.
And he was, along with his snowblower and wife Tracey. They met Judy at the bottom of our driveway.
While they were working, I was sitting in a rocking chair in our bedroom peering through binoculars, watching their progress as best I could.
A short time later, someone else appeared but I couldn’t tell who it was. She was helping, figuring out where the edges of our driveway were and breaking the ice on top.
Was that our next door neighbor?
It was. And her kids too. And one of their friends was with them. They were jumping up and down, breaking the ice and making the occasional snow angel.
And I was laughing, watching the show.
To the kids, it wasn’t work. It was fun. And I was enjoying it along with them.
And then I saw Rambo from across the street, armed with her snowblower. That beast can throw snow into the next county. She’s serious about snow removal.
What started out looking like it was going to take the better part of the day didn’t. Two hours later, the job was almost done.
The kids even brought water and tissues for the adults. Judy doesn’t do that for me! Maybe because I don’t act like an adult.
Five adults, three kids, two snowblowers and one very grateful laid up neighbor.
Operation Snow Angels melted my heart.
Thanks everyone.
I’ll bring the hot chocolate next time.
Do you prefer yours with or without marshmallows?
The author likes his without.
The Best of Engle’s Angle is available online or pick up a signed copy at a local bookstore.
