How to Survive a Winter Storm Condo-style

We moved to Watergate at Landmark almost 8 years ago, but because of work schedules it was hard to get to know our neighbors.  Now that I am retired, I am finding out what a marvelous community exists here on our 32 acres and in our 4 high-rise buildings and 1 garden apartment building.  After seeing Facebook friends complaining about having cabin fever (most are in Texas experiencing a terrible ice storm) I thought about why I wasn't sharing those feelings.  There are 3 contributing factors:  We haven't lost any power so I could use the elevators - I suppose I could make it up and down 14 floors using the stairs, but do not want to find out.   The architect who designed this complex installed a tunnel system so we can get to any building and the Community Center without having to go outside - I have no idea who that person was but I am forever thankful.   The 3rd factor is the wide variety of activities available to everyone.

My day began at 8 am with some of the members of the tai chi group.  It was fun to be able to do our exercises and watch the snow fall.

Later in the day I met Renee in the community market/cafe and we walked around to see what was going on.

We first saw lots of Christmas decorations. 

Even the beauty shop was decorated and we stopped in to say hi to Jane - she patiently tries to do something with our hair so she is a hero to us.  For some reason her client did not like our idea of leaving the foil in her hair - so like a holiday decoration.

Next we went outside to see if anyone was enjoying the snow-covered hill.

Building the 1st snowman of the season

With the temperature dropping, it was time to see what else was going on inside the Community Center.

Some of the teens had already come inside

A new kind of snow board - or at least new to me.

Not everyone was just hanging out.  These 2 were actually working on a  project.

The bridge club was in session

Of course, there were people working out or just enjoying the hot tub while watching it snow.

Another snow boarder heading out

After dark I found a spot for taking a photo of Building 2's annual Christmas tree.  This tradition began about 30 years ago and even with changes in occupants it has never skipped a year.  It is visible for miles around and something the entire neighborhood enjoys.  It's visible from the platform at the Van Dorn Metro Station, almost 2 miles away.

Even with winter storms, it is a wonderful season and we are so happy to be part of the WAL community.