You never know what each season will bring, and although there are always all sorts of predictions each winter, we never really know if we will have calm, beautiful winter days or piles and piles of snow. And while the skiers and snow-boarders are praying for snow, if we do get a full blast of the "fluffy white stuff" this winter, some, particularly the elderly, might find themselves in real trouble.

After a powerful snowstorm and ice build-up one frosty winter day, a friend and I debated the health risks related to snow shoveling. He assured me that he uses a snow blower, and he added that he also took the time to clean the snow for his elderly neighbor. Way to go!

Too often the elderly, or those who are ill, do not have the means to afford nor the ability to find someone to help out in a snowstorm. These neighbors are really at risk, possibly having to walk on slippery snow and ice, and maybe facing a food or medicine shortage if they cannot get out. A little extra time, a little more work, a phone call, maybe a few extra items to add to your shopping list is all it takes. And it will mean so much to that neighbor in need.

So please, when the cold weather blows our way and snow blankets the peninsula, don't forget to check on your neighbors who just can't do it all by themselves. Give them a hand. Trust me, it will make you both very happy.

-Wendy Karpel Kreitzman