It was Nov. 24, the first major storm of the season, and there I was — putting chains on my two-wheel-drive car outside of Moonshine’s Truckee office in the dark so I could get over Brockway Summit to my home in Tahoe Vista. Although I have lived in Tahoe for nearly 11 years, this was my first foray into putting on chains. I felt that I had hit a milestone and could officially call myself a mountain woman!
Although not a Tahoe winter newbie, I certainly felt like one as I was laying down the chains, rolling over them with my car, and adjusting them in the cold, dark winter night. I believe the entire procedure took more than an hour, plus another two hours at least to make it home, as I had to stop three times to put the chains back on. Although I have become a pro of sorts over the last month in putting chains on, those first few times were painful learning lessons, and reminded me that it takes a certain kind of person to brave real winters in the mountains. After all, the previous four “winters” don’t really count.
With the dearth of snowy winters, everyone has to become accustomed again to what a true Tahoe winter is. Just think — there are some Tahoe kids and dogs (and transplants) experiencing their first true snow year up here! But, don’t fret, as we have you covered. In this issue, the California Highway Patrol gives winter driving tips — and tells us common mistakes that can actually result in fines (here), we offer advice on how to not get injured while shoveling (here), give insight on the guys and gals who will save you if you get lost or buried (here), and long-time local Eddy Ancinas takes us back to 1997, when a major El Niño hit the region (here). So, even if you have lived here your whole life, it may be wise to brush up on your winter skills again.
Oh, and don’t worry about me and chaining up — I was the lucky recipient of a 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee over the holidays! The Auto and Tire Doctor in Truckee accepted nominations from the community to gift the car to a needy family, and I was chosen out of 50 people who were nominated. I am humbled by the outpouring of love and support I received from my friends and co-workers who nominated me, and am so grateful to The Auto and Tire Doctor for this generous donation. Because, with winters like this one, it really does take community spirit and togetherness to survive.
