Shiloh Morgenstern plays with her dogs in the snow. (Photo Provided)

PARKERSBURG — As snow covers the Mid-Ohio Valley, local residents are finding creative ways to stay active, entertained, and connected during the storm. From hybrid work routines to playful sledding adventures, the snow brought both challenges and opportunities for the region.

Cat Lang, a hybrid worker, has embraced the chance to spend quality time with her children. “Luckily, I hybrid work, so not much has changed,” she shared. “We’ve had lots of fun with the kids! We took down a tree and started a Valentine’s tree. And I’ve done a small amount of cleaning out closets and prepping for when life gets busy again.”

Jill Torbett, a Marietta resident, reflected on the rare snowfall in her area.

“Trying to enjoy it; usually we don’t get much snow here,” she said.

Torbett has kept busy with indoor chores, reading, and even ventured out for a short walk.

From left, Lilith Lang, Kalis Bigley and Desh Bigley enjoy family time out in the snow. (Photo Provided)

“We did a little bit of shoveling with help from our neighbors,” she added.

Meanwhile, MC Augstkalns noticed the impact of the heavy snowfall on a cherished local feature.

“Got a lot of snow on my little library and pantry!” they reported.

For Shiloh Morgenstern and her 6-month-old puppy, the snowstorm brought a delightful first-time experience.

“Forest got to experience snow for the first time, we enjoyed some sled riding while he ran along looking like a snow yeti covered in ice balls,” she said. “He was having too much fun to care.”

Georgia Martin builds a “Snow-tem Pole” while playing in the snow. (Photo Provided)

For some, however, the snow disrupted everyday life. For some individuals living in more rural areas, they struggled to get out of their houses due to the sheer volume of the snow. On the other hand local businesses struggled with the loss of several days of revenue.

“With having a business with an appointment-based schedule, the winter had had a pretty hard impact on our biz so far!” said Ashton Michael, owner of Pawsh Pet Salon, “At least forty percent of our clientele is elderly and a flake of snow usually keeps them in, but this weather has been keeping everyone in, and I sure can’t blame them!”

Gwen Sour can be reached at gsour@newsandsentinel.com

Sadie Rhodes and her son Will Rhodes go sledding in Marietta. (Photo Provided)

The view of the wintery conditions from Jill Torbett’s house. (Photo Provided)