Wow, Daiseybeans, I didn't know all this was going on. The snow of course, but not your burial in it. The photos remind me of growing up in upstate NY. I'll bet you don't hope you were in Texas now! It sounds like you have things in hand and I'm glad you have such a good friend to help, but I would re-iterate, be careful with the heavy shoveling. It has done in too many unsuspecting people up north who were in great shape. Give us an update when you can. I'm hoping for heat for you soon!
I'm really pleased to hear that you've got oil in your tank again. Now you'll be warm and toasty no matter what the weather does. :-D I agree with Droopy that Mark is a real looker and I would love him as a neighbour of mine - he wouldn't even have to dig snow just let me over him. Austin is a real snow cat isn't he? I've honestly never seen a cat that loves to 'swim' through all that white stuff and enjoy doing it.