In Montana, we have a complex relationship with winter. The crisp air and the natural sound-dampening effect of snow make for a uniquely beautiful environment. It really is magical, but after about 6 or 7 months, winter starts wearing out its welcome. Just as with many things though, once it’s gone, many can’t wait for winter to return.
Below zero temperatures and genuine white-knuckle driving conditions are significant obstacles to daily living, yet nobody seems to mind much. We just drive slow, and help each other out when it’s necessary. It is a common sight to see a line of cars backed up, with one vehicle stuck ahead, stemming the flow of traffic. Instead of honking horns, the next three drivers in line will usually get out and help push the stuck car out of danger. The palpable menace Montana winter doles out promotes a unique sense of community and we’re-all-in-this-togetherness.
Montana schoolchildren do not know the meaning of snow days. In Big Sky Country, schools don’t close unless it’s so cold the busses won’t start. We all go to work in blizzard conditions, digging our cars out of feet deep snow sometimes twice daily.
As we slept contentedly, Winter began last night. A half-foot of snow fell on parts of the Gallatin Valley, and the temperature dropped below freezing. A small storm in comparison to what Montana is capable of, this first real winter dump has changed the landscape completely. Fall colors, bright sunrises and sunsets turned to the muted greyscale of overcast skies and a white blanket of snow. Streets that were perfectly navigable and safe yesterday have become a network of ice skating rinks. Winter has begun, and we’re happy to see our old friend again; hopefully this year will bring enough snow to protect our beautiful landscape from wildfires.
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