Snow Clearing, Tow Trucks, and a Holiday Reminder

Today started like a normal winter day in Winnipeg… until I realized there was snow clearing. No more simple street signs — now it’s all “Know Your Zone,” so you basically have to check online before you park to avoid ticket and tow.

I was by the window watching a woman drive a huge snow‑clearing truck like it was nothing. Then my daughter comes out of her room, and a minute later she pops back out again like my personal tow‑truck alarm: “Mom, move your car before it gets towed.” That’s when I knew it was serious. No signs, no warnings… just tow trucks ready to grab anything.

And of course, I had nowhere to park. The whole neighbourhood looked like it was about to be swallowed by plows. So what did I do? I drove to Polo Park and decided to admire the Christmas lights — even though I’ve seen them almost every year. Still pretty though.

To be fair, I was already supposed to pick up my partner’s cake, so I was heading this way anyway. I just didn’t expect to be rushing out of the house like someone who almost left wearing their robe. The traffic was wild — not just on the streets, but even at the cashier. Holiday season chaos everywhere.

But in all the rushing, the towing scares, and the winter madness, here’s what I was reminded of:

Stay safe.

Take a breath.

And don’t stress about gifts.

I’m joking (kind of), but really — your presence is more important than the present. Not everyone can afford gifts, and that’s okay. Christmas isn’t about what you can wrap. It’s about the things money can’t buy: time, kindness, warmth, and the people who make you feel at home.

So here’s to surviving snow‑clearing season, tow trucks, mall traffic, and the beautiful chaos of the holidays.

Stay warm, Winnipeg. And may your car never be in the wrong zone.