New place, new rules. Absolutely correct.

As a New Englander with some of the same conditions, I would suggest a few things for wintertime. Most of them you've heard before.

1. Different EDC bag in the back of the car. Include blanket, spare windshield washer fluid, rainwear, winter wipers (minimizes snowpack on the blades), jumper cables. And on and on.

2. Snow tires. FOUR! The brakes don't stop the car, they stop the wheels. The tires stop the car. I want as much advantage over the snow as I can get. And if you are driving 4WD or AWD, in that case get FOUR snow tires. It will matter less getting up the hill, but just as important coming down the other side and stopping before sliding into the intersection.

3. Driving in winter. Nothing is as important to make certain you get where you are going as slowing down. If you are on the highway you should be in the right lane. If you pass anyone, slow down.

Yes, this is pretty conservative advice. And, of course, modify these rules as you gain experience. But that first winter will be a BIG learning experience for you.