Holy cow, 9 inches? Thank you for wringing all the s--- out of the storm systems before they moved further east.
We got away with a light dusting here.
We have the same issue with our deck. I take it as a personal affront that I still have to look out and see s--- on the deck long after the ground is clear. Here's a fun trick to use when the s--- has just come down and is still fresh and fluffy - blow off your deck with a leaf blower! It works beautifully, except on really heavy wet s---, and does a nice job getting all the railings and spindles clear. It's very satisfying to make the s--- go away and get to play with your yard tools at the same time.
I've been trolling all the nurseries and big box stores, looking for my gardening fix. One of the area Home Depots (Kingston Pike/Cedar Bluff, for the locals) had 1 gallon 'Filigree Lace' Japanese maples on clearance for $5.97. So, yes, one followed me home. Just don't ask any silly questions like where I'm going to plant it!
Here's a show near you...
http://cubits.org/tngardens/db...