In the Bleak Midwinter…Car Stuff

Ok. Odd title. However, if you’ve been following me for a while, you know that I suffer from “BSOS” or “Bright Shiney Object Syndrome” aka ADHD. So…it came to my attention the other day and I was reminded of it today, that some people don’t know what to do in a Midwestern winter. That got me thinking…maybe I should do an advice post for all of you gf travel-loving Midwesterners. Here it is!

Tip #1: Put a Bag of Sand in Your Trunk

Now why would you do this? Well, if you drive a little four cylinder car like I do, you know that it’s basically a roller skate. Mmmmhmmmm…your driving a car small enough to strap to your foot. Not really, and absolutely no offense to people who drive small cars! I do too and I love it! My gas mileage is excellent and it fits us perfectly well. I have no wish for a bigger vehicle. However, if you’ve driven one of these puppies in the snow, you know that there is little to no traction, even with good tires. The problem is that the car doesn’t weigh enough to hold it down on the road, hence the sliding into curbs, etc. in the snow.

To prevent this, all one needs to do is have a 70 pound bag of sand popped into the trunk. The extra weight weighs down the car, and voila! No more slippy-slidey! (Or may I suggest a mouthy teenager? JK!!!) I couldn’t help myself! 😉Wonderful! You may also use cat litter, or water softener salt. The best part about using sand or kitty litter, is that if you get stuck, you may use some of it for traction by putting part of the sand or litter under your tires. If you do opt for the surly teenager, they could help dig you out if you also put in a shovel!

Tip #2 Have Your Lights On!

I can’t think of a better way to tell you this! Just because you can see to drive, DOES NOT mean that other drivers can see you!!!! Stop being selfish. This is not about you (as in whether you can see to drive!) This is about whether we can see you in that dense fog, or even just the greyness of a winter morning! So, unless the sun is brightly shining so that you can’t drive without sunglasses, please put on your lights! Isn’t it better to be safe and seen than killed and unseen?

Tip #3 Always have a Blanket!

So, let’s say that you forgot the sand/litter/salt that you were supposed to buy to put in the back of your economy car. Now, you have slid off the road and into a ditch. You will need help getting out, and you have called for it. However, it’s a busy time of year, and the rescue wreckers are otherwise occupied. You might be in for a long wait. If your car is not operational, you could get cold quickly. The best solution? Have a warm blanket at the ready. Your body heat paired with your warm blanket and being inside your car away from the wind, could keep you cozy and warm instead of shivering while you wait for help.

Tip #4: Snacks, Anyone?

You might want to consider keeping some small packages of nuts, dried fruit or the like in your little car. These could keep you from wasting away, or feeling faint as you wait for help. You’ll also be in a much better place when help does arrive. No one is going to want to see you stranded and cranky!!!

That’s all I can think of for now! Stay safe out there, and if it’s really bad, the best advice is to just stay home!

God bless you all and have a happy and safe holiday!

Rita