The stakes are high.

If you want us to come plow your driveway again this winter, the letter said a while ago, send us a check for the season and we’ll come every time the white stuff lands at least 3 inches deep.

Yes, thank you, I said with my signature.

I knew they were ready when I came home one day and a rep had staked out our driveway borders in preparation for what happens in Central New York.