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The first snowy weekend in Rockland County is always an event. It’s not just about the weather—it’s a social phenomenon. It’s when Rocklanders collectively lose their minds trying to cope with, celebrate, and capitalize on the snow. So buckle up (or zip up your parka), because here’s a tale of one particularly memorable snowy weekend.
Act 1: The Driveway Showdown
The weekend begins as it always does—with me staring at my driveway, which looks more like a glacier than a path. Armed with my trusty shovel and already regretting not buying a snowblower, I begin the arduous task of clearing snow from my car.
It’s a delicate dance: shovel a bit, throw the snow, realize I just threw it where I already cleared, curse loudly, repeat. I finally manage to uncover my car, only to realize the plows have blessed me with a mountain of fresh snow at the end of the driveway. Oh, joy!
Meanwhile, my neighbor’s kid is making bank with his makeshift snow removal business. I overhear him negotiating rates with another neighbor:"$50 for your driveway. $75 if you want me to pretend I’m enjoying it." Smart kid. Should’ve hired him.
Act 2: Slippery Sips and Excuses
Once the driveway is clear, I decide it’s time for a reward. Naturally, that means a walk to my favorite coffee shop in Nyack. What I didn’t factor in was the ice. Every step feels like an audition for Dancing on Ice, except my choreography consists of slipping, flailing, and desperately grabbing at invisible support beams.
Inside the coffee shop, people are huddled with their cups of steaming lattes, laughing and sharing their “snowed-in” excuses. I overhear someone saying, “I told my boss my internet is out. Now I’m ‘working from home’ at Bear Mountain later.” Brilliant. Taking notes.
Act 3: Snow Play at Bear Mountain
Later, I “accidentally” miss a meeting to take my impromptu snow day to Bear Mountain. Because what’s a snowy weekend without some fun? The scene there is a mix of wonder and pure chaos. Families are sledding, couples are taking cute selfies, and kids are rolling down hills like human snowballs.
The TikTokers are out in full force, of course. One girl in a crop top and Ugg boots is attempting a “candid” snow angel while her friend shouts, “No, look more whimsical! Try laughing while you do it!” I chuckle into my scarf and silently wonder how many takes it’ll take before they lose a phone in the snow.
Act 4: Karen vs. Snow
Later that evening, I log onto Nextdoor for the real entertainment. The complaints are flying faster than the snow itself.
“Does anyone know why the plows are always late on my street? My taxes are too high for this nonsense!”
“Kids are charging $60 to shovel! Outrageous!”
“Someone’s dog peed in the snow near my driveway. Disgusting!”
Karen’s having a rough day. Meanwhile, I’m scrolling with hot cocoa in hand, marshmallows bobbing like little snowmen, enjoying the show.
Act 5: Dogs Gone Wild
Speaking of dogs, this is the weekend they completely lose their minds. Snow is apparently the ultimate dog stimulus—part playground, part snack bar. My neighbor’s golden retriever is outside, jumping and spinning in the air like he’s auditioning for Cirque du Soleil: Snow Edition. Another dog is running laps around a snowman, barking furiously, as if it’s a suspicious intruder.
It’s a great time for the pups, though my neighbor spends half the afternoon trying to explain to his poodle why eating an icicle is not a good idea.
Act 6: The Ugg Boot Apocalypse
If snow is the weather equivalent of pumpkin spice, then Ugg boots are its footwear soulmate. By Sunday morning, it feels like every other person in Rockland County has decided to pull theirs out of hibernation.
At the grocery store, a sea of beige and black suede clomps through the aisles. Wet, slushy Uggs squeak on the floors, creating a symphony of bad traction and questionable fashion. I’m convinced the snow actually triggers some kind of Ugg instinct—if you see snow, you must wear them, no matter how impractical.
The Perfect Ending
As the weekend winds down, I finally settle in at home. Snow days in Rockland County are messy, unpredictable, and chaotic—but they’re also magical. With the fire crackling, a fresh cup of cocoa in hand, and the muffled sound of snowplows in the distance, I realize that these snowy weekends are some of the best.
Sure, I slipped on the sidewalk, shoveled more than I wanted to, and dodged snowball fights at Bear Mountain, but it’s all part of the charm. Here’s to more snow, more chaos, and more reasons to laugh this winter.
Stay warm, Rockland County! ❄️
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