We've had a mixed day weather-wise today. We got a little snow overnight and throughout much of the day, and now it's just overcast. The snow was light and just enough to cover the ice so it was hard to tell what was underfoot. I made it down to the mailbox and back ok, but even West Shore Road looked pretty icy under the sand the town had spread. It was cold enough so the sand didn't do much, but it was certainly better than nothing. There had been bare spots on our driveway, but I couldn't tell where they were under the snow, so I just depended on my cleats and walking stick - although the darned walking stick (just one of the convenient pieces of spruce limbs I've picked up during our walks in the woods over the years) slipped precariously on the icy spots, too, so I didn't dare depend much on it. It does help me catch my balance sometimes, so I like to have it with me. 
     We've had two visits from Vermont Visiting Nurses today. Bonnie came this morning and did the usual vitals, etc., and this afternoon a very pleasant physical therapy specialist named Marty stopped in. He was very helpful and gave Fred some good suggestions about how to make his recovery speedier and more comfortable. Right now, keeping his oxygen level up is important, so he has some breathing exercises to do. It's good for him to walk, and he does that just fine - but he won't be running up Jamie and Marie's hill for a while yet. That will come eventually, I'm sure. I envision that Fred will emerge as his usual, strong self about the same time spring arrives.