Tips from the Trenches: A Guide to Practical Parenting

With the recent snow here, the roads have been closed, but the desire to leave the house is still there. The problem...taking the stroller in the snow is a major challenge, but toddlers walking any distance in the snow is possibly worse. So, I've learned a few tricks to help manage the Stroller Capades.

• Fill a large thermos with very hot (boiling) salted water instead of coffee. Use the water to clear the path when you get stuck. Let's face it, your only going to Starbucks anyway so why bother.
• Spray heavily salted water on your stoller wheels using a regular spray bottle to help increase traction. Take the bottle with you for touch ups.
• Make sure the stroller is heavily weighed down to increase traction. Lots of gear stowed securely in the basket beneath is your best bet. Remember this reduces your clearance, though.
• Do not attempt to carry a handbag. Put your ID and money in your pocket in case you have to abandon your load. No one, except the really ambitious, will steal your stroller if you abandon it. It's just as much of a burden to them as to you. Just call your husband, tell him where you left it, and ask him to bring it home after work.
• Remember it's not the destination, it's the journey.