Whether you refer to the storm over the weekend as Storm Jonas, Blizzard Jonas, or if you thought everyone was talking about a Jonas brother for the last few days, it was a doozy. I was prepared for the estimated 4-8 inches Long Island was set to receive (or 6-12 inches, depending on the station you listen to). But not the 20-something we got in reality. I find staying in during a snowstorm similar to going for blood work — minus getting pricked with a needle. Did you ever notice how you are able to go hours without food, except when a doctor tells you to fast? Well, for me, that’s how I am in a snowstorm. I never mind staying in and relaxing for a day — except when it is imposed on me and I can’t get out of the house at all due to a foot of snow blocking my exit. Then cabin fever begins to set in after a few short hours.
My preparations began on Friday — a little later than I had planned. I went to Trader Joe’s around 11 am, expecting to find empty shelves. What I found instead was a civilized store — shoppers patiently waiting at the check-out lines and shelves that were fully stocked. Actually, the only thing they were out of was chocolate scones (#whyyyyyy). With a wagon full of goodies, I mean plenty of food to get me through the storm, I deemed this outing a success. The last stop was a fill-up at the gas station, and then I was ready to hunker down and wait for the snow.
As Friday evening approached, I felt like a little kid on Christmas Eve awaiting Santa. I paced by the windows hoping to see the first flake. By the time I went to bed there was still nothing.
Around 4 am on Saturday I was awoken by the relentless wind that sounded like a freight train hitting the house.
The morning light was not quite out yet and the backyard had a coating of snow that I could barely make out in the darkness. I’m usually not awake this early in the morning, but it was enjoyable to watch as the snow got heavier with each passing moment. By 8 am the storm seemed to be in full force. It was steadier, and brought along blizzard-like conditions. I watched the landscape change dramatically in the four hours since I awoke. There was an eeriness to this storm, and it brought back memories of Hurricane Sandy with its ruthless winds.
The snow and wind continued all morning. I made a break for it around 2 pm, when my cabin fever started to kick in. I opened the side door and was forced to slither through a small opening thanks to the snow drift that was leaning against my exit. A brief survey of the yard resulted in finding myself in knee-deep snow. The cold and biting wind made staying out for more than a few minutes feel like torture. I quickly retreated into the house and back into my pajamas…where I would stay until the next day.
By 4 pm on Saturday I was praying to the Snow Gods to make it stop. I was over the storm and not even a Kardashian marathon on E! could make the conditions palatable. I watched as the snow fell through the evening and wondered if it would ever stop.
In the morning I was woken by a different sound than the day before — that of people and snowblowers. The sun greeted me as I was roused from bed. It was a welcome sight.
After breakfast I ventured outside. The side door was now in a frozen state, requiring force to pry open. The snow drifts were large, and it was difficult to see just how deep the snow was. I made it out and was immediately swallowed up by the soft powder. Waist-deep, I stood up and tried to make my way like a gazelle. The backyard was blanketed under thick snow. Not even the birds and squirrels were out.
Despite having all of the creature comforts at home and a fully stocked kitchen — complete with Starbucks hot chocolate packets and treats from Dunkin Donuts, I have never been happier to have a plowed driveway and warmer temperatures on the horizon.
But enough about me, how did you fare in the storm? Any fun blizzard stories to share? I’d love to hear them!
Wow! Waist deep is pretty crazy! Loved your description of this storm. Glad you are safe and have a driveway you can see. Can’t believe what an easy winter we’ve had (so far) here in Chicago.
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
You’re lucky, Kathrine! I thought we might escape winter entirely on the East Coast this year. But no such luck. I’m looking forward to venturing out of the house today — for longer than 5 minutes. Happy Monday!
I ended up with around 22 inches.. which was pretty, until I had to drive in it this morning. Philadelphia needs to get better with snow management! I am looking forward to the rain we’re getting tomorrow to melt some of it away.
Christina :: Simple and Delish
I hear ya, Christina! I haven’t been on the roads yet, but from what I hear, Long Island did a pretty good job clearing everything. It’s just a lot of snow to deal with. Hope you’re staying safe and warm!
Love these pretty and fun pictures! You have such a great eye! Happy Monday!
http://www.laurenfarrellny.com/blog
Thanks so much, Lauren! I’m glad you enjoyed seeing these snaps.
So pretty pictures! Stay warm babe! Have a great week!
Much love, Len
http://www.lenparent.com
Thanks, Len!
this pics are amazing, fab place! kiss
Federica – Cosa Mi Metto???
Thanks, Federica! I’m glad you enjoyed the post and thanks for visiting Living in Steil.
Great photos! So beautiful 🙂
~Samantha
http://goldcoastgirlblog.com
Thanks, Samantha!
You are so right about blood work and snow storms, never thought about it that way. Haha! Glad you were safe and warm, beautiful pictures!
xo, Lily
beautywithlily.com
Thanks, Lily! I’m glad you enjoyed the post.
This makes me almost wish we would get a blizzard!
Wishes & Reality
I wish we could have avoided this one, Heidi! It wasn’t fun at all. At least I’m all plowed out now. Happy Monday!
I cannot imagine getting this much snow! Stay safe.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
This was the second largest blizzard in terms of snow totals in history for us, Amy. There is so much snow piled up everywhere. I hope it melts quickly!
I love snowy days like this! So pretty! Loved all of these pictures!
Danielle
http://www.blushblossom.com
Thanks, Danielle! I love snowy photos, too, I’m just not so crazy about having to live with the snow until it melts. Happy Monday!
Surprisingly we haven’t had that much snow yet! I love snow when it falls, just hair pushing it around in the morning! – haha
http://www.racheldinh.com
The aftermath is the worst part, Rachel! I hate having to drive in it. Glad winter hasn’t been too bad to you this year!
Chicago thankfully missed this one and we also did finally get out of the deep freeze we were in. I’m so ready for winter to be over as well. Your photos are fantastic. I’m glad you were prepared for the big event. I hope it all melts soon for you. Have a wonderful day!
Kathy
http://www.glamsimplified.com
I’m glad you missed this storm, Kathy! It’s supposed to warm up on the East Coast this week, so hopefully the snow will melt soon. I hope your week is off to a good start!
This storm was definitely worse that I imagined it to be. Glad you were warm and safe. Glad warmer weather is only a few short months away. Xo, Ellese
Rock.Paper.Glam.
I can’t wait for the warmer weather, Ellese! I’m hoping for no more snow between now and then.
I really enjoyed reading this, Vanessa; very well written! It was indeed a lot more than what was predicted. They were saying it’s gone down in the books as one of the top 10 worst snow storms that has hit the New York. It’s funny you mentioned how empty it was in Trader Joe’s, it was pretty empty in Mrs. Greens, too, but Stop & Shop was PACKED! Anyway, stay warm and safe on those roads especially. It’s like some people forget that when it snows, the roads are not the best to drive fast in…seriously, ugh! Have a great week, babe!
XO,
Jalisa
http://www.thestylecontour.com
I heard that this was the second biggest storm to hit NY in terms of snowfall, Jalisa. I definitely was not prepared for all of the snow we got! I was at King Kullen the day before I went to Trader Joe’s last week, and they were out of everything. What a contrast between the stores. Hope you are staying safe and warm!
I love the snow and the winter too!!
Stunning photo!!
Marina
http://www.sweetlvanda.it
Thanks, Marina! I’m glad you enjoyed the photos from the storm.
Waist deep? Guess it’s not snow angel conditions haha. Loved reading your whole piece. I felt like I was right there with you. I think the hardest thing for me would not being able to fulfill any restaurant food cravings I’d have. First world problems, right? 😛
xx Yasmin
http://banglesandbungalows.com
I can totally relate, Jasmin. About half-way into the storm I actually wondered if Starbucks was open — and pondered my ability to walk. Crazy, right?
I totally get cabin fever if I don’t leave the house! Glad you got out a bit!
Annessa
http://www.seekingsushine.com
It was so good to get out of the house today, Annessa! Even if some of the roads hadn’t been plowed yet. #lovemy4wheeldrive
Such a crazy snowstorm, but so fun all the same.
xo, jill
http://www.BornFancy.com
The storm was so crazy, Jill! I’m glad some of the snow is melting already.
Wow! These pictures are amazing! For me blizzard outside turned to a cozy time in front of the TV/computer by the fireplace with the family.
http://www.marinasummers.com
That sounds like a great way to ride out the storm! I’m glad you’re enjoying these photos.
You hit by the blizzard too? Same here! Ended getting around 27-30inches. It was as if the snow was never ending.
Melanie | The Mel Division
I thought the storm was never going to end, Melanie! It was a little frightening with the high winds. Hope you’re staying safe and warm!
What a snowstorm! These photos are beautiful!
Style by Avery
It was quite a snowstorm, Jen! I’m glad you enjoyed these photos.
Beautiful pictures!! Lovely post!
Xoxo,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
Thanks, Trang!
These shots are so fun! Makes me miss my hometown!!
Enjoy the snow for me, please.
xx.
Cynthia
http://www.thesirenconfidential.com
I will definitely do my part to enjoy the snow for you, Cynthia! I wish I could send some your way. I’m glad you enjoyed the post and thanks for visiting Living in Steil.
Love the pics you captured. We got around 27 inches in Brooklyn. I love the snow and winter, but I think 27 inches is enough to last the rest of the year (lol)!
xx,
Michaela
I completely agree with you, Michaela! I was not prepared for all of the snow that we got. Fortunately, it seems to be melting quickly, but can that be our one and only snowfall this winter? I’m glad you enjoyed the post and thanks for visiting Living in Steil. Hope you stay safe and warm!
Wow. That is a lot of snow, but it all looks so peaceful and beautiful, the untouched snow 🙂
Xx Blue Ducklings
http://www.blueducklings.wordpress.com
It was pretty until it started to melt and turned to slush! Thankfully, the warm temps won’t keep the snow around for long. I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Yeah it is getting warmer in the weather. Hopefully we are over the snow in Denmark know :)?
I hope we are both done with snow this winter! One storm was enough for me.