Last Monday I started at my new job. Last Wednesday there was a HUGE snowstorm that, in typical fashion, dumped more snow in a short span of time than could be expected to be cleared in time for the morning commute for Saint John-ers. So, thinking they might come in handy, I donned my great big white ugly snowboots and left for work. I arrived to find that the lot where I have my parking spot assigned only had a few spots open that had been cleared of snow. Luckily I was a little early (I had left early on purpose due to the roads) and I snagged one of them. Then I got out, loaded myself down with my purse, lunch bag and work bag and of course my coffee and headed out.
My lot is a few blocks from my work and none of the sidewalks had yet been cleared let alone the roads. The side roads were still loaded with snow and so I trudged off, thankful for the coverage my boots provided. The snow was almost a foot deep and my boots were juuuust that much higher than the snow.
For the first half block, there is an ever so slight incline. Then it’s definitely downhill. There was a garbage truck out as well and we kept passing one another, the guy at the back throwing nodding and smiling with me as we both navigated the treacherous roads. I headed downhill and then made my turn onto the next street.
This, being a more ‘main’ type street, had been somewhat cleared, and what wasn’t cleared was packed in tightly by the traffic. There’s a high school on this street and traffic was plentiful. The road was much clearer than the sidewalk so I opted for walking on the side of it. You know this kind of winter road, as a kid, I used to take a running start and then skid gleefully along the very packed snow-way. As an adult loaded down with baggage, I slowed my walk.
I admit, I *was* tempted to do the run and slide, but, I’m not as sure on my feet as I was as a kid, so I abstained. No sooner had I thought it, however, than I had a “woah” moment where I nearly lost my balance. A couple of men were shovelling their stoops. They barely noticed my fumble. Thank goodness.
Another fumble. I likely resembled a weeble in winter hat.
And then I fell. No slow-motion glamour. No elegant crumple of a dainty damsel. I landed hard on my knee with a loud “oof” and spilled my coffee all over the road.
In full view of a high school.
And those two dudes shovelling.
And the garbage guys.
So, what did I do? I stood up, poured out the remainder of my now cold coffee, dusted off the snow and took an elaborate bow. Which earned me three smiles from strangers.
Like a pro.
YES!!! I, too, am notorious for the proud bow that follows a gymnast’s salute to the judges (or adoring crowds laughing at my fall.) I love this, Nuala! ❤ Enjoy your snow.
LikeLike
If I had been even slightly more graceful, I would have done a full on hands in the air gymnast finish, lol!!!
LikeLiked by 1 person